Condensed Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Loss (Unaudited) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2013
Mar. 25, 2012
Net loss $ (14,435) $ (13,622)
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:    
Net foreign currency translation loss (1,055) (179)
Gain on auction rate securities reclassified into earnings (1,200) [1]  
Net unrealized gain on cash flow hedges:    
Net unrealized hedge gain arising during the period 7,743 0
Net gain reclassified into earnings for cash flow hedges (1,753) [2] 0
Net unrealized gain on cash flow hedges 5,990 0
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax 3,735 (179)
Total comprehensive loss (10,700) (13,801)
Less: Comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interest   (503)
Comprehensive loss attributable to Spansion Inc. common stockholders $ (10,700) $ (13,298)
[1] Reclassified into Interest and Other Inome line item of the Condensed Consolidated Staement of Operations
[2] Reclassified into Net Sales line item of the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations. See Note 10 of the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.