可怕的台积电，建10座2nm工厂

Core Viewpoint - The competition in the semiconductor foundry market is intensifying as companies like Samsung and Intel challenge TSMC's dominance in 2nm technology, with significant investments and advancements in production capabilities being reported [1][2][3]. Group 1: TSMC's Expansion Plans - TSMC is planning to invest in three additional 2nm fabs in Taiwan due to surging demand for AI chips, with an estimated total investment of NT$900 billion (approximately US$30 billion) [1][2]. - The company has already begun mass production of 2nm chips and anticipates rapid growth in capacity, with the 2nm family expected to significantly contribute to its operations [2][3]. - TSMC's chairman emphasized that the demand for advanced processes driven by AI customers exceeds current production capacity by three times [3]. Group 2: Intel's Progress - Intel announced a monthly improvement of 7% in the yield of its 18A process, which has been ongoing for 7-8 months, positioning it to mass-produce the Panther Lake processor without increasing costs [5][6]. - The company is set to unveil its first product based on the 18A process at CES 2026, indicating strong confidence in its technology [6]. - Intel has received substantial support from Nvidia and the U.S. government, which has acquired a 10% stake in the company, aiding its recovery efforts [6]. Group 3: Samsung's Developments - Samsung's 2nm process yield has reportedly improved to 55-60%, with plans to double its production capacity by the end of next year [8][9]. - The company aims to achieve profitability within two years by enhancing its 2nm process yield and establishing long-term relationships with lucrative clients [9]. - Samsung's first 2nm SoC, the Exynos 2600, is expected to validate its advanced manufacturing capabilities, particularly in the challenging sub-10nm processes [8][9]. Group 4: Rapidus' Ambitions - Rapidus, backed by the Japanese government, plans to invest ¥100 billion (approximately US$700 million) to develop 2nm technology, with a goal of mass production by the second half of the 2027 fiscal year [10][11]. - The company aims to achieve positive cash flow by 2029 and is collaborating with major partners like IBM to enhance its technological capabilities [11][12]. - Rapidus is targeting a significant market gap in the 2nm semiconductor supply, with plans to focus on custom semiconductors for AI data centers and expand into automotive and robotics sectors [12].