iPhone 18 Series : Apple is set to revolutionize its upcoming iPhone 18 lineup by equipping all models with 2nm chipsets, potentially ending the long-standing performance differentiation between standard and Pro models. According to TF International Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple’s 2nm SoC (likely named the A20 and A20 Pro) will power the entire iPhone 18 series in 2026, marking a significant technological leap.
This news has sparked excitement among Apple enthusiasts and industry experts alike, as earlier reports suggested that only the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max would receive the 2nm upgrade due to cost concerns. However, Kuo’s latest report hints that all models — including the iPhone 18 and iPhone 18 Plus — may now benefit from the next-gen silicon
Table of Contents
iPhone 18 Series to Get 2nm Chipset: No More Performance Gap Between Models?
A20 and A20 Pro: What We Know So Far
Apple is expected to debut its first 2nm chipsets under the names A20 and A20 Pro, following its pattern of offering different GPU configurations to distinguish between the standard and Pro models.
Here’s what we can expect:
✅ A20 for Standard Models: Likely to feature a slightly lower GPU core count, similar to the A18 chip on the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus.
✅ A20 Pro for Pro Models: Expected to offer enhanced GPU performance, exclusive to the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, maintaining some level of differentiation.
This approach mirrors Apple’s current strategy with the A18 and A18 Pro found in the iPhone 16 lineup, where the Pro models get additional GPU power.
Why the Shift? Improved 2nm Yields Hold the Key
The decision to bring 2nm chipsets to the entire iPhone 18 lineup seems to be fueled by TSMC’s impressive progress in improving 2nm yields. Kuo mentions that TSMC’s trial production of the 2nm process has already achieved a 60% yield rate, with that figure expected to rise even further by 2026.
This progress gives TSMC the capability to ramp up monthly wafer production, allowing Apple to secure a steady supply of 2nm chips for all its models.
Differentiation Still Likely? Apple May Follow GPU Core Strategy
While Kuo’s phrasing suggests that all iPhone 18 models will share the same 2nm architecture, Apple may still introduce differentiation through GPU configurations.
💡 Past Strategy: Apple employed a similar approach in 2024 when it introduced the A18 and A18 Pro in the iPhone 16 lineup. Even though both chips used the same 3nm architecture, the Pro models benefited from a higher GPU core count, enhancing performance for gaming and demanding tasks.
If Apple sticks to this formula, we can expect:
- 📱 iPhone 18 and iPhone 18 Plus: Equipped with the base A20, featuring fewer GPU cores for standard users.
- 🚀 iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max: Powered by the A20 Pro, delivering superior GPU performance for power users.
Why 2nm Matters: Better Efficiency, Higher Performance
A shift to 2nm technology brings notable improvements over the current 3nm process used in the iPhone 15 and iPhone 16 series.
Here’s what to expect:
⚡ Increased Efficiency: The 2nm process will result in lower power consumption, extending battery life across the iPhone 18 lineup.
🚀 Higher Performance: Enhanced processing power, allowing for faster app launches, smoother multitasking, and improved gaming experiences.
🌡️ Reduced Heat Generation: Lower thermal output means cooler device temperatures, even during heavy usage.
What About the A19 and A19 Pro?
Before the A20 and A20 Pro make their debut, Apple is expected to launch the A19 and A19 Pro later this year, fabricated on TSMC’s advanced 3nm ‘N3P’ process. While these chips will offer incremental improvements, the real game-changer will be the arrival of the 2nm A20 series with the iPhone 18 lineup in 2026.
A Game-Changer for Apple’s Future Lineups
By introducing 2nm chipsets across the entire iPhone 18 lineup, Apple is poised to redefine performance standards while narrowing the gap between its base and Pro models. This strategic move not only ensures that all users get to experience the benefits of cutting-edge technology but also positions Apple ahead of competitors like Qualcomm and MediaTek, who are expected to transition to 2nm silicon around the same timeframe.
With mass production expected to ramp up by mid-to-late 2026, Apple fans can look forward to a groundbreaking upgrade that delivers superior performance, longer battery life, and cooler operation.
FAQs
Will all iPhone 18 models get the 2nm chip?
Yes, according to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, all iPhone 18 models are expected to feature Apple’s first 2nm A20 and A20 Pro chipsets, eliminating the performance gap seen in previous models
What is the difference between the A20 and A20 Pro?
The A20 is expected to power the base models (iPhone 18 and 18 Plus), while the A20 Pro will be reserved for the Pro models, offering higher GPU performance.
Read more: Rubina Francis – Paris Paralympics 2024: India’s First Paralympic Pistol Shooter to Win Bronze at Paris 2024
