Apple will apparently use TSMC to make the processors in their iPhone 7 and iPhone 7S handsets. TSMC are making the Apple A10 processor for this year’s iPhone and also the Apple A11 processor for next year’s handset.
According to a recent report, Apple has decided to use TSMC as the sole supplier for their processors for this year’s and next year’s iPhones.
TSMC is already the exclusive manufacturer of Apple’s A10 chip which will power the upcoming iPhone series slated for launch in September 2016. The Taiwan-based foundry will continue to be the sole supplier of Apple’s next-generation A11 processor that will be built on a 10nm FinFET process, the report indicated, without citing its sources.
Why TSMC is Apple’s Choice
Apple’s decision to rely solely on TSMC (Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company) for their processors is a strategic move. TSMC has been a reliable partner for Apple, providing cutting-edge technology and consistent quality. The A10 chip, which will be used in the iPhone 7, is expected to offer significant performance improvements over its predecessor, the A9. This chip is designed to be more efficient, providing better battery life and faster processing speeds.
The A11 processor, slated for the iPhone 7S, will be built on a 10nm FinFET process. This advanced manufacturing technology allows for more transistors to be packed into a smaller space, resulting in better performance and energy efficiency. The 10nm process is a significant leap from the 16nm process used for the A10, indicating that the iPhone 7S could see substantial improvements in speed and battery life.
Expected Upgrades in iPhone 7 and 7 Plus
Apple is expected to launch their new iPhone 7 and 7 Plus smartphones in September, and both handsets will get a number of upgrades over existing devices. These upgrades are not just limited to the processors. The iPhone 7 series is rumored to feature a redesigned antenna, improved water resistance, and the removal of the headphone jack, which has been a staple in smartphones for years. Instead, Apple is expected to introduce wireless earbuds and possibly a new type of wired earphones that connect via the Lightning port.
The camera system is also expected to see significant improvements. The iPhone 7 Plus, in particular, is rumored to feature a dual-camera system, which could offer better zoom capabilities and improved photo quality in low-light conditions. This would be a significant upgrade for photography enthusiasts and could set a new standard for smartphone cameras.
Additionally, the new iPhones are expected to come with iOS 10, the latest version of Apple’s mobile operating system. iOS 10 brings a host of new features, including a redesigned lock screen, improved notifications, and enhanced messaging capabilities. These software improvements, combined with the hardware upgrades, make the iPhone 7 and 7 Plus highly anticipated devices.
Implications for the Future
Apple’s partnership with TSMC for the A10 and A11 processors could have long-term implications for the tech industry. By choosing TSMC as their sole supplier, Apple is signaling confidence in TSMC’s ability to deliver high-quality, cutting-edge technology. This could lead to more collaborations between the two companies in the future, potentially influencing the direction of smartphone technology.
Moreover, the advancements in processor technology, such as the shift to the 10nm FinFET process, could set new benchmarks for performance and efficiency in the industry. Other smartphone manufacturers may follow suit, adopting similar technologies to keep up with Apple’s innovations.
In conclusion, Apple’s decision to use TSMC for their iPhone processors is a strategic move that promises significant upgrades for the iPhone 7 and 7 Plus. With improved performance, better battery life, and a host of new features, these devices are set to make a substantial impact on the smartphone market.
Source Digitimes
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