XML 64 R56.htm IDEA: XBRL DOCUMENT v3.5.0.1
Acquisitions/Divestitures (Divestiture) (Details 3) - Microelectronics business - USD ($)
$ in Millions
3 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Sep. 30, 2015
Sep. 30, 2014
Dec. 31, 2015
Dec. 31, 2014
Discontinued Operations        
Description of continuing involvement after transaction     The transaction included a 10-year exclusive manufacturing sourcing agreement in which GLOBALFOUNDRIES will provide server processor semiconductor technology for use in IBM Systems. The agreement provides the company with capacity and market-based pricing for current semiconductor nodes in production and progression to nodes in the future for both development and production needs. As part of the transaction, the company provides GLOBALFOUNDRIES with certain transition services, including IT, supply chain, packaging and test services and lab services. The initial term for these transition services is one to three years, with GLOBALFOUNDRIES having the ability to renew.  
Period of time over which cash consideration is expected to be transferred     2 years  
Discontinued operations        
Discontinued Operations        
Discontinued operation, period of exclusive manufacturing agreement after disposal     10 years  
Pre-tax charge related to sale   $ 4,700 $ 116 $ 4,726
Impairment of long-lived assets   2,400    
Total cash consideration expected to be transferred to acquiring company   1,500    
Other related costs   $ 800    
Cumulative pre-tax gain/(loss) on sale of business     $ 4,800  
Net cash transferred $ 515      
Cash consideration payable at closing date $ 750      
Discontinued operations | Minimum        
Discontinued Operations        
Discontinued operation, period of continuing involvement after disposal     1 year  
Discontinued operations | Maximum        
Discontinued Operations        
Discontinued operation, period of continuing involvement after disposal     3 years