TSMC has already demonstrated prototypes of its upcoming 2nm chips to one of its biggest customers, Apple, ahead of the chips’ expected 2025 debut, reports Financial Times.
TSMC, which dominates the global market in processors, has already shown the process test results for its “N2” — or 2 nanometre — prototypes to some of its biggest customers, including Apple and Nvidia, according to two people with direct knowledge of the discussions.
TSMC’s 2nm chips are expected to outperform the current 3nm generation of chips that Apple currently uses in its high-end products. The 2nm technology should also run more efficiently, offering improved battery life in addition to improving performance.
TSMC competitors Samsung and Intel are also working on 2nm chips. Samsung is reportedly offering cut-price versions of its latest 2nm prototypes as it works to attract the interest of big-name customers including Nvidia.
“Samsung sees 2 nanometre as a game-changer,” said James Lim, analyst at US hedge fund Dalton Investments. “But people are still doubtful it can execute the migration better than TSMC.”
A DigiTimes report says Apple’s close relationship with TSMC shows no early signs of ending, as Apple reportedly has no plans to reduce its 3nm or 2nm chip orders from TSMC before 2027 at the earliest.
TSMC’s 2nm production is expected to begin in earnest in 2025, with an appearance in Apple devices soon after.