A series of complications forced Samsung to delay its next-generation 1.4nm process, but that can not be considered a defeat for the Korean foundry because it reportedly intends to implement its third-generation 2nm process within two years, bringing in a host of improvements over the second-generation variant. Given that the company will probably experience incessant setbacks if it continues to move to the newer manufacturing process, Samsung’s strategy could now involve refining its current technology, which includes boosting yields and competitiveness with TSMC.
New third-generation 2nm process will bring a 20-30 percent performance improvement over the current technology and will involve a new process called Optic Shrink
During a SAFE forum for Samsung’s partners on July 1, the company demonstrated the third-generation 2nm process, which was achieved by applying an Optic Shrink to its second-generation 2nm node, also known as SF2P. As reported by ZDNet, with the details spotted by notable tipster @Jukanlosreve, the more advanced SF2P+ process can deliver between a 20-30 percent performance bump compared to the older manufacturing process, though the specific node compared to SF2P+ was not mentioned.
In addition to implementing the third-generation 2nm process, Samsung was previously reported to have completed the basic design of its second-generation 2nm technology, with mass production targeted for next year. As for why Samsung has delayed its 1.4nm node in favor of a more refined iteration of an older lithography, a company spokesperson said that rather than pouncing on the newer process, the Korean titan wants to improve existing processes by stabilizing yields.
The firm’s foundry and LSI division have been working closely for the prototype mass production of the upcoming Exynos 2600, which is said to leverage the 2nm GAA node. The yield target for the next few months is 50 percent, meaning that by the end of the year, that figure should have climbed up a respectable number. There is also the possibility that Qualcomm launches a Galaxy S26-exclusive version of the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 2 that is fabricated on Samsung’s 2nm GAA technology, as trial production is already underway and is codenamed ‘Kaanapali S.’
Judging by the progress outlined in these reports, Samsung is on the right track so far, but it is too soon to comment on the company’s position. However, we can come to a better understanding later in the year when the first 2nm GAA chipsets materialize, so stay tuned for further updates.
News Source: ZDNet
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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