Core Viewpoint - TSMC plans to increase the production price of its next-generation 2nm semiconductor process by approximately 50% compared to the previous generation, leading to resistance from major clients like Qualcomm and MediaTek [1][2] Group 1: Pricing Strategy and Client Reactions - Qualcomm's profitability has improved due to TSMC's price increase for its existing 3nm chip foundry services, prompting Qualcomm to consider diversifying its production to Samsung Electronics [1] - MediaTek anticipates a 24% increase in chip prices due to rising production costs associated with TSMC's 3nm process, directly impacting the profitability of both Qualcomm and MediaTek [1] - Qualcomm's CEO has indicated that the company is exploring multiple foundry partnerships, hinting at Samsung as a potential secondary partner due to TSMC's pricing strategy [2] Group 2: Production Challenges and Cost Disparities - TSMC's factory in Arizona faces challenges in personnel and equipment optimization, resulting in production costs that are higher than those at its Taiwan facilities, with estimates suggesting a cost difference of at least 30% for the 4nm process and potentially up to 50% for the 2nm process [2] - The production cost inefficiencies at TSMC's U.S. facility could undermine its traditional competitive advantage in cost efficiency [2] - Samsung's established operations in Texas provide it with a lower risk profile compared to TSMC, as Samsung has been operating foundries in the U.S. for over 20 years and has built a cooperative ecosystem with local companies [3]