Apple’s chip manufacturer TSMC is set to begin trial production of 2nm chips next week, marking a significant step forward in semiconductor technology. This move positions TSMC to deliver the advanced chips for Apple’s next-generation devices, including the anticipated iPhone 17 lineup.
The transition to the 2nm process node is expected to bring substantial improvements in computational and graphical performance, along with enhanced power efficiency. The trial production will take place at TSMC’s Baoshan plant in northern Taiwan, which is already equipped with the necessary components and machinery for this phase.
Currently, Apple’s A17 Pro and M3 series chips, based on TSMC’s 3nm architecture, power the iPhone 15 Pro and the MacBook Pro, offering notable improvements in performance and efficiency. Additionally, the recently launched OLED iPad Pro models feature the M4 chip, also built on the 3nm node but with slight enhancements.
With the 2nm process, TSMC will pack more transistors into a smaller space, leading to faster data transactions and better power efficiency. Early reports suggest the M5 chip, expected to debut in future MacBook and iPad models, will offer a 10-15% increase in performance and up to a 30% reduction in power consumption compared to current 3nm-based chips. Similar gains are anticipated for the A18 Pro chip in the iPhone 17 Pro lineup.
Despite being in the initial testing phase, TSMC’s plans are on track. However, potential manufacturing challenges could lead to delays and supply constraints for Apple. Mass production is slated to begin next year, with TSMC aiming to secure stable yields to meet high demand. Apple, being TSMC’s largest client, accounts for a significant portion of the supplier’s revenue, underscoring the importance of this development.
If successful, the iPhone 17 will be the first device to feature TSMC’s 2nm chips, followed by the 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models. The industry is keenly watching whether Apple will dominate TSMC’s 2nm chipmaking capacity in 2025.
