Both TSMC and Samsung Foundry are against each other like raging bulls in the 2nm chip race. Although both companies are reportedly preparing to send samples over to Qualcomm (the largest chip designer), Samsung Foundry has likely taken the lead in securing its first order from a Japanese startup.
According to a report, Preferred Networks (PFN), a Japan-based research and development company that uses deep learning on IoT applications, has roped in Samsung Foundry to deliver the first line of 2nm chips. The Japanese startup has ascertained how critical faster chips in AI are thanks to its expertise in developing custom software and supercomputers for customers.
Both PFN and Samsung Foundry will benefit from this deal as the former gets 2nm chips while the latter secures its first-ever customer for new 2nm chips. Reports suggest Samsung must have given PFN attractive discounts to lure the Japanese startup into partnering, keeping TSMC at bay and giving the Taiwan giant an edge in the 2nm chip race.
Samsung is set to introduce its 2nm chips by 2025 with the mass production starting later next year. It is the same timeline as TSMC although the way Samsung swung into action securing its first customer will give TSMC a run for its money if this continues. Samsung Foundry has been reportedly working tirelessly to rescue the market and performance gap when compared to TSMC. Partnering with PFN gives Samsung an advantage since the former is already associated with NVIDIA and Intel making the South Korean giant a strong ally in the game.
The fierce 2nm chip race
However, Samsung is also battling yield problems, especially with its 3nm GAA process. There have been instances where Samsung chips performed inferiorly giving TSMC an edge thanks to their higher yield and sustained performance. Both the chipmakers are at loggerheads with each other over the development of 2nm chips and eventually with the 1.4nm chips that are slated to be introduced in 2027-28.
Stay tuned as we bring the latest tech updates including the ongoing feud between TSMC and Samsung, right at your fingertips.
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