iPhone 16 Series: All Models to Feature 3nm A18 Chips Using TSMC’s N3E Process for Enhanced Yield and Performance

Apple is preparing to introduce its iPhone 16 lineup, which will come with significant enhancements and improvements. Although the launch of these devices is still about a year away, initial leaks and rumors are beginning to surface, providing a glimpse of what to expect.

According to the latest information, the entire iPhone 16 series will be powered by TSMC’s advanced 3nm A-series chips produced using the supplier’s N3E process, promising enhanced performance and efficiency. Apple has already confirmed orders with TSMC for mass production.

The Upcoming iPhone 16 Series and Upgrades

The iPhone 15 Pro currently features Apple’s first-generation 3nm chip, delivering noticeable improvements in performance and battery life. However, the standard iPhone models are equipped with the A16 Bionic chip, which is the same chip that powered the previous year’s iPhone 14 Pro models. In the upcoming iPhone 16 series, all models will boast the second generation of 3nm chips developed by TSMC. The upcoming A18 chips for the iPhone 16 models will be manufactured using TSMC’s N3E technology, offering a range of advantages compared to the N3B process.

Previously, it was reported that Apple was transitioning from the N3B to the N3E process due to its superior yield and performance ratios. The supplier has already initiated volume production using N3E. Apple is TSMC’s most significant client among smartphone manufacturers, accounting for 90 percent of the supplier’s production. Other major chip foundries are also expected to make the switch to the N3E process.

TSMC’s adoption of the N3E process is expected to result in higher yields compared to the N3B process. Additionally, it will lead to improved computational performance while being more energy-efficient. This transition implies that the iPhone 16 lineup is likely to benefit from a substantial performance boost and contribute to extended battery life. Currently, Apple employs N3B chips from TSMC, which have relatively lower yields compared to chips produced using the N3E process.

Industry analyst Jeff Pu anticipates that the entire lineup will debut with Apple’s A18-branded chips. The standard iPhone 16 models will feature A18 Bionic chips, while the ‘Pro’ models will be equipped with A18 Pro chips. This means that the standard models will bypass TSMC’s N3B process, transitioning directly to N3E fabrication. This transition is set to bring significant performance gains to the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus over the A16 Bionic chip found in the iPhone 15 models. The A18 Pro chip will also introduce substantial upgrades compared to the A17 Pro chip in the iPhone 16 Pro models.