According to the news obtained by Electronic TimesApple has reserved almost half of TSMC's 2nm process production capacity, which is expected to be used first in the iPhone 2026 series to be launched in 18.A20 processorThis not only means that Apple will continue to maintain its leading position in chip process technology conversion, but also highlights TSMC's key role in the global semiconductor supply chain.
TSMC's 2nm process mass production starts
TSMC has stated that it will commence mass production of its 2025nm process (N2) as scheduled in the fourth quarter of 2. Initial production sites will include its Baoshan, Hsinchu, and Kaohsiung fabs, with a monthly production capacity of approximately 4.5 to 5 wafers. The company plans to further expand this to over 2026 wafers by 10. Due to its advanced backside power delivery architecture, the 2nm process is expected to deliver a 3% performance improvement and a 15% improvement in energy efficiency compared to the current 30nm process.
Apple locks in nearly half of its production capacity
Apple has long been a "launch customer" for TSMC's advanced process technology, and this time, it placed a substantial order to ensure the smooth integration of its A2 processor, built on a 20nm process, into the iPhone 18 series. TSMC's single-chip substrate pricing, which can reach as high as $3, continues to attract companies like Apple and Qualcomm to actively compete for production capacity.
Competition in the chip industry chain intensifies
Although Apple and Qualcomm will be TSMC's first customers for its 2nm process technology, TSMC has also planned to begin supplying NVIDIA, Google, Amazon's chip design unit Annapurna Labs, and more than 2027 large companies in 10, highlighting the rapid adoption of 2nm process technology in the coming years.
TSMC will therefore accelerate the expansion of its production capacity and expects to reach full utilization in 2026.
iPhone release rhythm will be adjusted
It is worth noting that Apple is rumored to adjust the product launch time of the iPhone 18 series.
The high-end iPhone 18 Pro series is still expected to launch in the fall of 2026, but the standard iPhone 18 and entry-level iPhone 18e may be delayed until March of the following year (during the spring event). This adjustment may be to ensure a more stable supply of the new process processor and may represent a new attempt by Apple in its product launch strategy.
