If Intel now has a powerful ally like Qualcomm, TSMC continues to own Apple. The Taiwanese are aware of the non-dependence of the people of Cupertino beyond the short contracts they sign and it is a problem and surely a blessing when the signature is stamped. Intel has hit the gas and when it picks up momentum it looks like a hard-to-brake locomotive, so TSMC wants to take its current manufacturing “advantage” and stop the blow right after Intel thinks of it.
TSMC 2nm, Apple joins R&D for new node
It is not surprising that when there is a common idea and a defined goal, the parties come together to discuss it. Without a doubt, Apple is clear that TSMC is going to have pricing, wafer stock, and general offer that Intel doesn’t seem to have at the moment. Therefore, the two companies are working together on the new node of 2 nm which will include the new GAA transistors and where there are rumors that the new EUV High-NA technology could possibly be incorporated at some point in the evolution of said node.
The main problem is that Intel has already reserved all ASML scanners with this technology, so TSMC would have to wait or ASML to be able to manufacture more units within two or three years.
In any case, Apple is once again trying to position itself as the first to launch a node and a technology thanks to the in-house design of its chips based on ARM, a movement that Qualcomm had already undertaken in its time and which now copies by joining Intel and its lithographic processes, without a doubt, the war is served.
Start of production in 2023, high volume in 2024
Without a doubt, the volume of chips that Apple expects is closely linked to the new manufacturing plant which has just received the green light from the Taiwanese government. Therefore, and after the R&D carried out by said lithographic process, the plant will be built early next year and with it TSMC affirms that it will maintain its current leadership.
In addition, TSMC’s expansion plans across the world and its new Fabs will be a worthy rival for Intel and Samsung, who are already competing as a dual due to Apple’s entry as a preferred partner since. last year with the Taiwanese company.
At the moment there is no data on the improvements 2nm process, since there are no brochures created with it, we will therefore have to wait for the official announcement and presentation of it, which is expected at the beginning of next year if all goes well.
