Defining what a processor is, and what it is supposed to do, is not always as easy as it sounds. In fact, companies are struggling with the implications of hundreds of heterogenous processing elements crammed into a single chip or package.
Companies have extensive verification methodologies, but not for validation. Verification is a process of ensuring that an implementation matches a specification, and companies today have extensive verification methodologies. In comparison, validation is making sure the specification is right and fit for purpose. An important aspect for processor is whether they correctly execute code that targets the specification and meets the requirements?