Samsung announced its 3nm GAA process last year, but the initial months may have been focused on stabilizing yields of a manufacturing process that could go ‘toe to toe’ with TSMC. Now, during its first quarter results of 2023, the company stated that it is experiencing stable yields and will be able to provide its technology to a wide range of customers, including mobile SoC clients.
Samsung is also aiming to mass produce second-generation 3nm GAA chips in 2024
Despite reporting an operating profit drop of 96 percent, which was the biggest financial hit the Korean giant saw in 14 years, Samsung still has positive news to report regarding its foundry business. The company’s press release states the following, with additional emphasis placed on the second-generation 3nm GAA technology, with mass production aimed for 2024.
“The Foundry Business is mass producing the 1st generation 3nm process by applying GAA technology, with yields remaining stable into and throughout the quarter. It is also developing the second-generation process and is focused on securing new orders from key customers who need high-performance, low-power characteristics in mobile and HPC applications, aiming for mass production in 2024.”
Samsung also stated in its earnings report that it would eventually expand towards the advancement of 2nm chips, but it needs to make meaningful strides with the 3nm GAA process first. Previously published information mentioned that this cutting-edge node will be reserved for cryptocurrency miners. However, as TSMC focuses on its own 3nm volume production, Samsung likely wants to secure as many clients as possible by impressing them with its 3nm GAA samples.
According to the manufacturer, its latest technology can deliver up to 23 percent better performance and up to 45 percent high power efficiency when compared to its 5nm process. Strangely, Samsung has not provided comparisons against its 4nm iterations, which is strange. Also, you will be disappointed to hear that the upcoming Exynos 2400 will not be mass produced on the 3nm GAA node as Samsung is utilizing its 4LPP+ process for its upcoming high-end chipset.
One reason why the company has not switched to the 3nm GAA process for its own smartphone silicon could be due to yields, as TSMC is also said to be struggling when meeting chip demand for Apple. Furthermore, whatever output is achievable by Samsung at this time, it probably wants to supply this technology to its customers and increase foundry business revenue rather than use it in its own products.
News Source: Samsung Newsroom
About the author: Omar Sohail is a reporter and analyst for Wccftech's mobile section, specializing in the technology and business of the mobile industry. His expertise lies in the intricate hardware supply chain, covering developments in semiconductor manufacturing, chip lithography, and camera sensor technology.
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