Apple chip supplier TSMC is currently in the process of building a chip fabrication plant in Arizona, where it will manufacture chips for use by Apple, but the chips may not be ready on schedule, due to a skilled worker shortage.
The Wall Street Journal says TSMC is having difficulties in finding people with expertise in building semiconductor factories in the United States. If TSMC has to bring in experienced technicians temporarily from its home country of Taiwan, it would likely delay production of the first 4nm chips until 2025.
“We are now entering a critical phase of handling and installing the most advanced and dedicated equipment. However, we are encountering certain challenges,” said TSMC Chairman Mark Liu.
TSMC had been expected to begin manufacturing 4-nanometer chips for Apple as soon as its Arizona plant opened in 2024. Any manufacturing delays could potentially affect Apple’s 2024 device roadmap.
Once the 4-nanometer plant is up and running, TSMC has plans for a more advanced 3-nanometer fabrication plant, to supply Apple’s needs for future M3-powered devices.
