Introduction
Apple’s quest for the most powerful smartphone chips has been a journey of bold decisions and strategic shifts. While Samsung initially manufactured Apple’s iPhone processors, a turning point came in 2014 when Apple began working with TSMC.
This transition was not just about switching suppliers—it was about securing the future of mobile performance. With TSMC’s advanced chip manufacturing, Apple pushed the boundaries of efficiency, battery life, and processing power.
Today, TSMC exclusively produces Apple’s A-series chips, giving iPhones a technological edge over competitors.
But why did Apple leave Samsung, and how did TSMC rise to dominate the semiconductor industry? Let’s dive into the story.
https://www.yolegroup.com/product/report/overview-of-the-semiconductor-devices-industry-h1-2025
Quick Overview
Intel’s Missed Opportunity – Before partnering with Samsung, Apple approached Intel to manufacture iPhone processors, but Intel declined, believing the smartphone market was too small.
Samsung’s Early Role – Samsung manufactured Apple’s processors from the first iPhone until 2014, but challenges arose in performance, efficiency, and yield rates.
TSMC Enters the Game – Apple started working with TSMC in 2014 with the A8 chip and fully transitioned by 2016.
FinFET Revolution – TSMC’s superior FinFET (Fin Field-Effect Transistor) technology helped Apple improve power efficiency and performance.
Exclusive Partnership – Today, Apple relies solely on TSMC, benefiting from its cutting-edge manufacturing process, including the latest 3nm chips.
techovedas.com/why-tsmc-is-teaming-up-with-u-s-chip-giants-for-intels-foundry-future
The Samsung Era (Pre-2014)
Apple’s First Choice: Samsung
After Intel declined to manufacture Apple first iPhone processors, Apple turned to Samsung. At the time, Samsung was one of the few companies with the expertise to produce high-performance smartphone chips.
Samsung’s Manufacturing Process
- Early Process Nodes – Apple’s first processors were made using Samsung’s 65nm and 45nm technologies. These were large, power-hungry chips, but they were sufficient for the early iPhone models.
- Advancements Over Time – Apple and Samsung gradually moved to smaller nodes, reaching 32nm for the iPhone 5’s A6 processor in 2012.
- Performance Limitations – While Samsung was a reliable manufacturer, challenges arose as Apple demanded more efficient chips with better power management.
The TSMC Shift (2014-Present)
The Turning Point: A8 and A9
In 2014, Apple decided to split its A8 chip production between Samsung and TSMC. This gave Apple a direct comparison of the two manufacturers. TSMC’s 20nm process delivered better efficiency and higher yield rates, setting the stage for a long-term partnership.
By 2015, Apple moved the A9 chip production mostly to TSMC’s 16nm FinFET process, marking the official transition away from Samsung.
techovedas.com/apples-c1-modem-the-beginning-of-the-end-for-qualcomm
Why Apple Chose TSMC
Better Yield Rates – TSMC consistently provided higher usable chip yields per wafer, reducing costs for Apple.
FinFET Technology – TSMC’s FinFET transistors offered better power efficiency, crucial for battery life in iPhones.
Smaller Process Nodes – TSMC aggressively moved to smaller nodes, allowing Apple to develop faster, more efficient chips.
Exclusive Partnership – Unlike Samsung, which also makes chips for competitors, TSMC prioritized Apple’s needs.
Custom Optimization – Apple and TSMC worked closely to optimize chip designs, resulting in industry-leading performance.
Apple’s A-Series Evolution with TSMC
| Year | Chip | Process Node | Key Advancement |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2014 | A8 | 20nm | First Apple-TSMC chip |
| 2015 | A9 | 16nm FinFET | More efficient and faster |
| 2016 | A10 Fusion | 10nm | Improved battery life |
| 2018 | A12 Bionic | 7nm | First 7nm smartphone chip |
| 2020 | A14 Bionic | 5nm | Major power efficiency gains |
| 2022 | A16 Bionic | 4nm | Increased performance per watt |
| 2023 | A17 Pro | 3nm | Leading-edge efficiency and power |
The Future: Apple & TSMC’s Growing Partnership
Apple’s exclusive reliance on TSMC highlights the foundry’s dominance in chip manufacturing. As Moore’s Law slows down, Apple will continue working with TSMC to push the boundaries of mobile computing.
With the 2nm process node expected by 2025, Apple is set to maintain its lead in smartphone performance and power efficiency. Meanwhile, Intel and Samsung are still struggling to match TSMC’s process technology, proving Apple made the right call by choosing Taiwan’s chip giant.
techovedas.com/the-journey-of-iphone-processors-why-apple-left-samsung-for-tsmc
Conclusion
Apple’s decision to leave Samsung for TSMC was a turning point in chip manufacturing. By choosing a partner with cutting-edge technology and better efficiency, Apple secured its lead in smartphone performance. As TSMC moves toward 2nm and beyond, this partnership will continue to redefine mobile computing.
The chip market is shifting, and now is the time to ride the wave of change! For expert insights and strategies in the semiconductor space, trust Techovedas to keep you ahead of the curve!
