TSMC reveals plans for 1.4nm technology after reaching 2nm target
In an era where buying a smartphone involves delving into the nitty-gritty of chip manufacturing and transistor count, TSMC (Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company), a key player in the semiconductor industryprovided a glimpse into the future of manufacturing after reaching the 2nm process node.
The importance of understanding the details of the chip, from the application processor (AP) to the camera sensor and modem, has grown exponentially. Consumers now look to specifications to determine the performance, efficiency and capabilities of their devices. TSMC's discovery sheds light on the relentless pursuit of advances in semiconductor technology.
Right now, just iPhone 15 Pro i iPhone 15 Pro Max the Apple company boasts a 3nm chip, which testifies to TSMC's technological momentum. However, the focus shifts to the next step, as Qualcomm is expected to unveil Snapdragon 8 Gen 4reportedly using TSMC's second-generation 3nm technology, slated for October.
TSMC has not yet specified the date of transition to 1.4nm production
Breaking the silence on post-2nm plans, TSMC unveiled its vision for a 1.4nm node, dubbed the A14. The announcement came during the “Future of Logic” panel at the IEEE International Electron Devices Meeting. Although the Taiwanese company has not yet specified the start date of the mass production transition to 1.4nm, experts suggest that it could be between 2027 and 2028, aligning with the current production flow in 2nm technology.
shutterstockThe 1.4nm node is expected to use a “Gate-All-Around” (GAA) transistor design, a technology that covers the transistor channel on all four sides to reduce current loss and increase drive energy.
This innovation results in more powerful chips with reduced power consumption. With the integration of GAA transistors, TSMC will begin manufacturing at 2nm, which mirrors Samsung Foundry's implementation of 3nm chips, reports Tom’s Hardware.
The industry's movement plan towards smaller nodes and a larger number of transistors highlights the relentless pursuit of speed, energy efficiency and miniaturization in integrated circuits. TSMC's discovery marks the continuation of this technological journey, with the semiconductor industry pushing the boundaries of what was once thought unthinkable.
The confirmation of the arrival of TSMC's 1.4nm node marks another important chapter in the world of technology poluprovodnicaleaving consumers and tech enthusiasts eagerly anticipating the next wave of premium mobile devices.