TSMC has prepared its 3nm technology, for partners this year including Apple’s competitors. However, the semiconductor giant is expected to see an increase in revenue mainly driven by Apple as a recent report mentioned a 50 percent rise in orders. This surge is likely due to the mass production of Apple SoCs this year using the cutting-edge manufacturing process.
More About Apple being TSMC’s Top Client
Besides adopting the generation ‘N3E’ process for mass production there are rumors that Apple’s A18 series, designed for the iPhone 16 lineup will feature a notably enhanced Neural Engine. This improvement is anticipated to bring AI capabilities. Previous reports indicated that the new 3nm chipset would be available across all iPhone models marking the time that the entire A series range will be manufactured using the same lithography.
An earlier benchmark test revealed testing of the A18 Pro model suggesting that there might also be an A18 version for affordable options like iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus models despite its slightly disappointing multi-core performance. Nonetheless, it all depends on Apple placing orders for 3 shipments with TSMC. Estimates suggest an increase of around 50 percent in these orders, per Economic Daily News.
This strategic decision puts Apple in a position to become a TSMC customer by 2024. Apart, from the A18 and A18 Pro, which are expected to make a contribution to shipment volumes Apple is also planning to introduce its M3 chip, in products including new models of OLED iPad Pros and an updated series of MacBook Air.
TSMC’s 3nm manufacturing process accounted for just 6 percent of total revenue in Q3 2023, according to TrendForce, but with the surge in orders, this share is projected to rise substantially. Furthermore, TSMC reportedly plans to ramp up its 3nm production to 100,000 monthly units by the end of 2024, indicating its intention to meet orders from various customers beyond Apple.
