The A14 chip built into the iPhone 12 is manufactured by TSMC using the 5nm (nanometre) process. The structure width, which is narrower than that of the iPhone 11, manufactured using the 7nm process, ensures greater efficiency and better performance. But Apple is apparently pushing for an even smaller structure: TrendForce analysts forecast that Apple will switch to the 4nm process in about two years.
Apple is currently the only TSMC client to have chips manufactured using the 5nm process. In addition to the A14 chip for iPhones, the M1 chip for MacBooks and Mac minis is also manufactured in this narrow structure width.
In 2022 we’ll be talking about a new iPhone processor that logically will be called the A16: this is the one that will be manufactured, according to TrendForce, using the 4nm process. Qualcomm also seems to be interested in its Snapdragon chips being made by TSMC at 4nm.
But before we get to this point, the A15 chip expected in 2021 is expected to rely on an improved 5nm process from TSMC. This should then power the iPhone 13 and be even more efficient and powerful than the current A14 chip in the iPhone 12 series.
If you can’t wait that long, however, we’d advise a trip over to our iPhone deals roundup to check out the latest Black Friday bargains.
This article originally appeared on Macwelt. Translation by David Price.
