Core Viewpoint - TSMC's 2nm technology is experiencing unprecedented demand, with significant implications for the semiconductor industry and TSMC's revenue growth [2][3]. Group 1: TSMC's 2nm Technology - TSMC is set to mass-produce 2nm chips in H2 2024, which is expected to drive approximately NT$73 trillion in global product value over the next five years [2]. - The anticipated revenue for TSMC in 2024 is NT$2.8943 trillion, a 2.79 times increase from NT$762.8 billion in 2014, with a gross margin rising from 49.5% to 56.1% [3]. - Major clients such as AMD, MediaTek, Qualcomm, Microsoft, and Meta are actively pursuing 2nm technology for high-end products, indicating strong market interest [2][3]. Group 2: Future Developments - TSMC plans to build four 1.4nm wafer fabs in the Zhongke Phase II park, with the first expected to begin risk production by the end of 2027 and mass production in H2 2028 [4][5]. - The initial monthly production capacity for the 1.4nm process is projected to be around 50,000 wafers [6]. - The Zhongke Phase II expansion will also accommodate other semiconductor-related companies, enhancing the local supply chain ecosystem [8].

Core Viewpoint - Samsung's wafer foundry division is facing challenges with its 5/3 nm process and is now focusing on ramping up its 2 nm technology, aiming for a yield of 70% by the end of the year to attract major clients [1][2]. Group 1: Current Challenges - Samsung's wafer foundry is experiencing quarterly losses amounting to tens of trillions of Korean won, compounded by low utilization rates and difficulties in securing large customer orders [1]. - The company has decided to concentrate resources on 2 nm technology, temporarily shelving investments in the more risky 1 nm process due to the high demand for AI semiconductors [1]. Group 2: Strategic Moves - Samsung is actively investing in building partnerships with U.S. clients and is working to regain customer trust after failing to meet performance and yield commitments for its 5/3 nm process [1]. - The company has appointed Margaret Han, a former executive from NXP Semiconductors, to lead its U.S. foundry operations, leveraging her experience to secure orders from potential clients [2]. Group 3: Market Position and Performance - The 2 nm process is expected to offer a 12% performance improvement and a 25% reduction in power consumption compared to the 3 nm process, although current yield rates for 2 nm are estimated to be below 30% [2]. - Despite the challenges, Samsung is in discussions with multiple potential clients regarding the 2 nm production status, indicating a proactive approach to securing orders [2].

Core Viewpoint - Rapidus, a Japan-based semiconductor foundry, aims to mass-produce 2nm chips by 2027, with trial production lines starting on April 1, 2024. The company is in discussions with 40-50 potential clients, including major U.S. tech firms known as GAFAM [1][2]. Group 1: Production Plans and Partnerships - Rapidus plans to produce next-generation 1.4nm chips after the 2nm production, indicating a timeline of approximately 2.5 to 3 years for adopting next-generation technology [2]. - The Japanese government has committed to providing additional support to Rapidus, with a total aid amounting to 1 trillion 822.5 billion yen, including previous assistance [2]. - Rapidus is collaborating with Broadcom to provide trial samples of 2nm products, which could lead to semiconductor production for Broadcom's clients, including Google and Meta [2]. Group 2: Market Position and Competition - Rapidus aims to differentiate itself by achieving production speeds 2-3 times faster than TSMC, which currently dominates the advanced foundry market [1]. - NVIDIA's CEO has expressed interest in potentially outsourcing AI chip production to Rapidus, highlighting the growing need for diversified supply sources amid U.S.-China decoupling [3][5].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the latest developments in 2nm semiconductor technology from major players like TSMC, Intel, and Samsung, highlighting their advancements and market strategies. TSMC Developments - TSMC is set to hold a ceremony for its 2nm expansion, marking a significant breakthrough in advanced process technology, with mass production expected in the second half of 2025 using Nanosheet transistor structure [3][4]. - TSMC's 2nm production facilities are planned in Hsinchu and Kaohsiung, with strong demand anticipated, particularly from Apple, AMD, and Intel, with orders already extending to 2027 [3][4]. - The 2nm process is expected to increase speed by 10-15% at the same power consumption and reduce power consumption by 25-30% at the same speed, with a density increase of over 15% [4][5]. Intel Developments - Intel plans to launch its 1.8nm technology, known as 18A, with mass production expected to begin in mid-2025, featuring significant performance improvements and density increases [7][8]. - The 18A process is designed to enhance performance per watt by 15% and increase chip density by 30%, with innovative PowerVia technology to improve power performance [8][9]. - Intel is also preparing a performance-enhanced version of 18A, which may attract external customers looking to maximize performance while minimizing power consumption [9]. Samsung Developments - Samsung is facing challenges with its 2nm GAA process, currently achieving a 30% yield rate, which must improve to at least 70% for broader customer orders [10][13]. - The company has secured orders for its 2nm process and aims to enhance its GAA technology, collaborating with Preferred Networks to develop AI accelerators [10][13]. - Future enhancements include the SF2P and SF2Z nodes, which will focus on improving power, performance, and area efficiency [14]. Other Industry Players - Japan's Rapidus is constructing a 2nm wafer fab, aiming for trial production in April 2025 and mass production by 2027, partnering with Quest Global Services for semiconductor solutions [17][18]. - The competition in advanced semiconductor processes is intensifying, with TSMC making strides towards 1.4nm technology, while Samsung and Intel are also advancing their respective nodes [18][19].