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Core Insights - TSMC's 2nm process is in high demand, with estimated tape-out volumes 1.5 times that of the 3nm process, attracting companies like Apple, Qualcomm, and MediaTek to secure supply for competitive advantage this year [1] - Despite the advancements in chip technology, consumer interest in smaller process nodes is waning, leading companies to pivot towards architecture improvements and increased memory cache as key strategies [1][2] - Apple has reportedly secured over half of TSMC's initial 2nm capacity, while Qualcomm and MediaTek are also vying for the enhanced 2nm "N2P" process to gain an edge in wafer shipments and CPU frequency [1][4] Group 1 - TSMC is expected to cancel Apple's priority status as its largest customer due to the rise of AI, with TSMC's revenue increasingly coming from different sectors [3][4] - Analysts note that while flagship devices drive industry growth, consumers are now more focused on actual user experience rather than just annual specification upgrades [2] - TSMC is facing supply constraints for 2nm wafers, leading to price increases for advanced process technologies starting in 2026, with the estimated price for Apple's A20 SoC being $280 [6] Group 2 - Apple's A19 Pro chip showcased significant architecture improvements, achieving a performance increase of 29% with minimal power consumption [2] - The competitive landscape is shifting, with companies like MediaTek's Dimensity 9500s surpassing Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 by utilizing a 19MB CPU cache [2] - TSMC's CEO has reportedly informed Apple of a significant price increase, marking the largest in recent years, indicating a shift in the dynamics of their partnership [4]