Core Viewpoint - Apple is securing a significant portion of TSMC's advanced 2nm production capacity, which is expected to enhance its competitive edge in the semiconductor market and solidify TSMC's position as the leading supplier of cutting-edge technology [2][3][6]. Group 1: Apple's Strategy and TSMC's Capacity - Apple has reportedly secured at least half of TSMC's 2nm production capacity for 2026, which is a strategic move to ensure access to the latest manufacturing technologies [2]. - TSMC is set to begin mass production of 2nm chips in the second half of 2025, with expectations of a ramp-up in production in 2026 [4]. - TSMC's largest customer is still Apple, contributing an estimated revenue of 624.3 billion TWD in 2024, marking a 14.2% year-on-year increase [2]. Group 2: Product Development and Technology Adoption - Apple plans to utilize TSMC's latest packaging technology, Wafer-Level Multi-Chip Module (WMCM), in several upcoming products, including the M6 chip for MacBook Pro and the Vision Pro headset [3]. - The first batch of TSMC's 2nm technology will be adopted by key clients, including Apple, NVIDIA, AMD, and MediaTek, with Apple integrating this technology into its A20 chip and M6 series processors [6]. - TSMC's 2nm production facilities are being developed in Hsinchu and Kaohsiung, with the Hsinchu site primarily supporting Apple’s flagship applications [3]. Group 3: Competitive Landscape - Intel's absence from the list of initial customers for TSMC's 2nm technology is notable, as the company is shifting its strategy towards its own manufacturing processes [7]. - Intel plans to focus on its proprietary Intel 18A process technology, which incorporates new architectures aimed at enhancing performance and efficiency [7]. - The competition between TSMC's 2nm technology and Intel's self-developed processes will be a key focus in the semiconductor industry moving forward [7].

Core Viewpoint - TSMC is set to begin mass production of its 2nm process by the end of this year, with Apple securing half of the capacity for its 2nm chips by 2026 [1] Group 1: Company Developments - TSMC's stock rose nearly 1% to $265.17 ahead of market opening [1] - The upcoming iPhone 18 series will feature the A20 and A20 Pro processors, which will utilize TSMC's 2nm process [1] - The MacBook Pro's M6 processor and the next-generation Vision Pro's R2 chip will also adopt TSMC's 2nm technology [1] Group 2: Industry Implications - The collaboration between TSMC and Apple highlights the increasing demand for advanced semiconductor technology [1] - The shift to 2nm technology represents a significant advancement in chip manufacturing, potentially impacting the competitive landscape in the semiconductor industry [1]