Intel introduced the Intel 4004, widely regarded as the first commercially successful general-purpose microprocessor, in 1971.
The 4004 was released as a four-bit CPU and was originally developed for the Busicom 141-PF printing calculator. Intel engineer Federico Faggin led the chip’s design, with contributions from Ted Hoff and Stanley Mazor. Its integration of the central processing unit onto a single silicon chip helped establish the microprocessor industry.
Intel was founded in 1968 by Robert Noyce and Gordon Moore, with Andrew Grove joining soon afterward. The company later became closely associated with x86 processors used in personal computers and servers. Its manufacturing and processor businesses helped make it one of the most influential semiconductor companies in the world.
The 4004 is sometimes confused with the Intel 8008, which followed in 1972 and offered an eight-bit design. “First microprocessor” claims can vary by definition, but the 4004 is the standard answer for the first commercially available general-purpose microprocessor.