Spreadtrum thinks its Intel chips will just be what Samsung wants for its mid-range smartphone series for 2017.

According to Digitimes, Spreadtrum is also contracting TSMC to build chips using the foundry's 16nm process technology. LG has signed up Intel to make its 10nm process technology for its ARM-based mobile SoCs. LGE is also TSMC's 16nm and 28nm clients.

Intel only has a workforce of 2,000 people, but it is targeting fabless customers based mainly in China, South Korea, Japan and other countries of Asia. In addition, a team of Intel employees stationed in Shanghai is working with local Chinese manufacturers.