According to Taiwanese supply chain sources (via Liberty Times Net), TSMC’s trial production of its 2-nanometer (nm) chip technology has outperformed expectations, with yield rates above 60%. This puts TSMC in a very good position to begin mass production of 2nm chips by 2025, which will be used in Apple’s iPhone 18 Pro lineup in 2026.
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TSMC’s 2nm Chip Technology Set for 2025 Mass Production, Poised for Apple’s iPhone 18 Pro Models
It previously designed a new nanosheet architecture in-house to offer risk trial production at its Baoshan plant in Hsinchu, northern Taiwan. It offers a significant improvement over the current generation of chips built using a 3nm FinFET process. This new technology is anticipated to provide performance as well as efficiency improvements, so it is a crucial step forward for the semiconductor sector. After successful trial runs, TSMC plans to transfer its production expertise to its Kaohsiung plant for mass manufacturing.
This advancement is particularly important for Apple, with some reports from noted analyst Ming-Chi Kuo along with rumors having suggested that only 2026 iPhone 18 Pro models will be powered by chips built with TSMC’s 2nm process. It is also speculated that these devices will come with 12GB of RAM which will be a substantial jump from the existing devices. Conversely, the base iPhone 18 models will likely leverage a developed 3nm process, allowing it to provide a more cost-effective solution for its customers.
The 2nm process has generated considerable interest in various sectors, particularly within the AI industry, with TSMC’s CEO, C.C. Wei, underscoring demand for the technology that has been greater than expected to date. The company is preparing to scale up production needs as soon as possible.
TSMC’s Road Map also features the A16 process that is expected to arrive in 2026 where a 1.6nm-class technology will use nanosheet transistors with sprung pressure rail (SPR) architecture. As a result, this should lead to an impressive performance increase of 8-10% at the same voltage, power savings of 15-20%, and an increase in chip density of 7-10%, all dependent on the design, of course. Expect to see more of these trends shaping the future of premium computing and mobile.
FAQs
When will TSMC’s 2nm chips be used in iPhones?
TSMC’s 2nm chips are expected to be used in Apple’s iPhone 18 Pro models, potentially launching in 2026.
What are the advantages of TSMC’s 2nm technology?
The 2nm technology promises better performance, lower power consumption, and increased chip density, benefiting devices like the iPhone.
