- Qualcomm is working on two 2nm processors likely to be the Snapdragon 8 Elite 3 and 8s Gen 4.
- This upcoming processor will compete with Apple’s A20 processor next year.
- TSMC is likely to manufacture the chips for Qualcomm, although the company is in talks with Samsung as well.
With Apple rumoured to switch to a 2nm node with its A20 processors, Qualcomm doesn’t want to be seen too far behind. The Snapdragn 8 Elite 3 could be the first chipset to use an advanced 2nm process. Thanks to TSMC’s recent success in getting more than a 60 percent yield, we could see a resurgence of 2nm processors. Here’s everything you need to know about this next generation of processors.
Qualcomm Could Launch Its First 2nm Processor to Compete With Apple
According to a post by Digital Chat Station, Qualcomm is working on a 2nm processor, and interestingly, there will be two, not just one. Two models, namely SM8950 and SM8945, will launch next year based on TSMC’s upcoming node.
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The SM8950 could be the Snapdragon 8 Elite 3, the successor to the flagship processor from last year. Furthermore, the SM8945 is likely to be a less powerful version, potentially reserved for mid-range phones.
It could be the Snapdragon 8s Gen 5 or Elite 2, depending on what Qualcomm calls it. This will be an underclocked version or a less powerful variant of the Snapdragon 8 Elite 3. This could help Qualcomm cut down costs while still offering flagship grade performance.
The reports suggest that Qualcomm is likely to adopt a dual chip strategy. It could source chipsets from TSMC as well as Samsung’s Foundary to switch to a 2nm node. However, it’s worth noting that Samsung Foundry hasn’t seem much success in recent days and has been struggling for a while.
While the tipster did not specify which foundry Qualcomm could opt for, it does state that the upcoming chip will use an improved lithography process.
The Samsung Galaxy S26 series, OnePlus 15, and iQOO 15 could be the first phones to ship with it. Although, surprisingly, the company is introducing two 2nm chipsets in the same year.
As part of its strategy to switch to a different node every 3 years, Apple is planning to introduce its A20 chipset next year. The iPhone 18 series could be the first models to debut with the chipset and all iPhones will use a 2nm processor.
Apple will be the first customer for TSMC’s 2nm node, called TSMC N2. The company is reportedly getting a yield between 60 to 70 percent during its trials. Given that making 2nm chips is an expensive affair, don’t be surprised if the smartphone’s price receives an hike next year.,
