Apple 1.4nm chips reportedly targeted for 2028 production at TSMC

Apple is preparing for its next major silicon transition, with reports indicating that Apple 1.4nm chips could enter production in the first half of 2028. According to an analyst note from JP Morgan, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company will serve as the primary manufacturer for the upcoming node. That schedule points to an eventual commercial debut inside the 2028 iPhone lineup. The development follows Apple’s rollout of the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and the foldable iPhone Duo, all powered by the 2nm A20 Pro chipset.

Introducing that 2nm hardware marked a significant technical step for the company, yet long-term fabrication planning has already moved to future processes. Early projections suggest that the jump to 1.4nm silicon remains roughly two years away. Neither company has officially confirmed the production target, meaning release schedules could still shift before volume assembly begins.

Expected 2nm refinements for 2027

Because mass production of 1.4nm wafers is expected in early 2028, Apple will continue relying on the 2nm process for its 2027 iPhone models. Sticking with the existing node does not preclude architectural speed or efficiency improvements. Foundry partners regularly refine manufacturing methods between major technological generations, enabling higher clock frequencies or lower power consumption on mature nodes.

TSMC followed a similar approach during its 3nm generation. After launching initial 3nm production, the foundry introduced an optimized N3P fabrication process that delivered measurable gains over earlier wafers. Apple could see an equivalent mid-cycle upgrade on the 2nm node before transitioning to next-generation silicon. Because these production details remain unverified, final outcomes will stay uncertain until 2027.

Foundry capacity and competitive pressures

Apple has collaborated closely with TSMC on advanced semiconductor nodes for years, making joint development on upcoming processes a natural progression. Market conditions surrounding advanced silicon have shifted, however. Rising demand for artificial intelligence processors has led TSMC to balance orders from multiple firms, including Nvidia, which also require substantial wafer allocations on leading nodes.

Apple formerly commanded the majority of TSMC’s most advanced output. By committing capital to lock down 1.4nm supply early, the company hopes to guarantee adequate factory capacity for its future product roadmap. Securing those production slots early is intended to give Apple an advantage over competitors in both the consumer smartphone segment and the broader computing sector.

TSMC might not be the sole foundry involved in these future silicon plans. Additional reports suggest that Apple could also partner with Intel to produce 1.4nm chips. Winning foundry orders from Apple would represent a significant business achievement for Intel, validating its ongoing push to establish itself as a viable contract semiconductor manufacturer.