Core Insights - Apple is expected to announce its next-generation M5 processor this week, which will be manufactured using TSMC's 3nm "N3E" process node [1] - The upcoming M6 processor is anticipated to debut in 2026 and will likely be Apple's first laptop chip based on 2nm technology, indicating a move towards more advanced process nodes [1] - The M5 processor will compete with Qualcomm's newly released Snapdragon series and MediaTek's next-generation processors, although these competitors are utilizing the more advanced TSMC N3P process [1][2] Cost Considerations - Apple may have opted for the N3E process for the base M5 chip due to cost considerations, while the higher-end M5 Pro and M5 Max versions are expected to use the more advanced N3P process [2] - TSMC is reportedly planning to increase the pricing for 3nm wafers, with costs ranging from $25,000 to $27,000 per wafer, which could influence Apple's decision on chip manufacturing [1] Performance Expectations - The base version of the M5 chip is expected to have less powerful performance compared to the M5 Pro and M5 Max, which are projected to be released in early 2026 [1]