There is a possibility that this year’s Apple iPhone 17 lineup may feature a 2nm chip, although the likelihood appears slim. Initially, it was anticipated that all models would operate on chips based on Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC)’s third-generation 3nm process, N3P.
The previous generation, the iPhone 16, utilizes TSMC’s second-generation 3nm (N3E) chips. While advancements in chip technology can offer performance and efficiency improvements, these gains are often minor when compared to transitions to entirely new process nodes.
Reports from DIGITIMES indicate that TSMC plans to begin mass production of 2nm chips in the latter part of the year, with Apple expected to be the first customer. It suggests that not just the Pro models, but also one of the two standard iPhone 17 variants, likely the Air, could incorporate a 2nm chip.
This new chip has the potential to enhance performance by up to 15 percent compared to the iPhone 16 Pro’s A18 Pro chip. However, production capacity for the 2nm chips is expected to be limited.
This scarcity may lead to the standard variant continuing to rely on the 3nm chip. Additionally, the 2nm chips are projected to carry a higher production cost, which likely explains their exclusive allocation to higher-tier models.
TSMC’s 2nm technology is touted as the most advanced semiconductor process available, with claims of increased speed and improved efficiency over the 3nm counterparts. This news contrasts with predictions by analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, who had previously stated that the iPhone 18 would first feature a 2nm chip.
Although DIGITIMES’ accuracy can be questionable, if the rumor holds true, it could give Apple’s devices a significant competitive edge over top Android phones using 3nm chips. Even without the new chip, the iPhone 17 Pro is expected to present considerable upgrades, such as a redesigned rear, a 48MP periscope camera, and updated iOS.