Reports indicate that Apple has secured the initial production capacity for TSMC's advanced 2nm process technology, with trial production set to begin this week, according to the Taiwanese media outlet Commercial Times.
TSMC has installed the equipment for the 2nm process at its new Hsinchu Baoshan fab in the second quarter, aiming to integrate these chips into the iPhone 17 series in 2025. Sources suggest that the 2nm process could provide a 10-15% performance boost over the current 3nm technology and reduce power consumption by up to 30%.
However, a leaker known as "Phone Chip Expert" on Weibo has disputed these claims, labeling them as "fake news." This individual, who boasts 25 years of experience in the integrated circuit industry, including work on Intel's Pentium processors, asserts that mass production of the 2nm process will not commence until the end of 2025. Consequently, the iPhone 17 is expected to continue using TSMC's 3nm process, with the 2nm technology potentially debuting in the iPhone 18.
In addition to the advancements in chip technology, Apple plans to adopt SoIC (System on Integrated Chips) packaging for its M5 chip in 2025. This innovative approach involves stacking multiple chips with different functions to create a compact three-dimensional structure. This move is expected to enhance performance and efficiency in future Apple devices.
The conflicting reports about the timeline for the 2nm process highlight the uncertainty surrounding the next generation of Apple chips. While some sources are optimistic about the early adoption of 2nm technology, the leaker's track record and industry experience lend credibility to the claim that the technology might not be ready for the iPhone 17.
Despite these disputes, TSMC remains a critical partner for Apple, providing cutting-edge chip technology that drives the performance of its devices. The anticipated improvements in the 2nm process, such as enhanced performance and reduced power consumption, are crucial for maintaining Apple's competitive edge in the tech industry.
