iPhone 17: New Report Backs 2nm Chips Rumours – What Are the Challenges?
It was reported in July that TSMC, the Apple chipmaker, was ahead of schedule in trial production of the 2nm chips that are likely to be introduced in the iPhone 17 next year, and a new report backs that up. However, the new report underlines the challenges associated with this ultra-small process and claims that the Apple chipmaker can't handle it without support.
iPhone 17: 2nm Chips
The first 2nm chips were introduced to Apple by TSMC, which dominates the global market in processors, in December last year, according to reports.
TSMC, which dominates the global market in processors, has already shown the process test results for its “N2” — or 2 nanometre — prototypes to some of its biggest customers, including Apple and Nvidia, according to two people with direct knowledge of the discussions.
According to reports, the process test results for its "N2," or 2-nanometer prototypes, has already been submitted by TSMC to some of its customers, including Apple and Nvidia. Trial production reportedly began earlier than expected in July.
According to Free City, equipment for the production of 2nm chips has been installed at the Baoshan factory since the second quarter. The trial production will commence in the third quarter, earlier than the market expected for the fourth quarter. This is interpreted as an acceleration to ensure stable performance before mass production.
Reports claim that Apple may have reserved all of TSMC's 2nm capacity, just as it did with the 3nm chips that were first used in the iPhone 15 Pro.
TSMC Can’t Manage It Alone
According to a report by Chou news agency, TSMC is likely to produce the chips, however, it needs support from other suppliers to prepare them for installation in devices. TSMC's 2-nanometer process will enter mass production in 2025.
While the significance of the ecosystem is on the rise, TSMC cannot develop advanced packaging technology without any help. It is dependent on ecosystem partners like materials, equipment, electronic design automation (EDA), and silicon intelligence (IP), which has gradually evolved into a “group battle” competition situation.
2nm Chips Limited to iPhone 17 Pro Models
The 2nm chips would be limited to iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max if Apple continues to implement its strategy of keeping the most advanced chips for the Pro models.
This likely means that the expected ultra-thin model, dubbed the iPhone 17 Air, will not receive the chip.
