The sub-3nm expansion plans for Samsung are progressing somewhat smoothly, with its 2nm GAA yields estimated to be at 60 percent, giving the Korean foundry sufficient confidence to proceed with trial production of its next-generation lithography at its Taylor plant. Initially constructed for 4nm wafer manufacturing, Samsung has previously been reported to transform the overseas facility into a 2nm hub, giving it an edge over TSMC, which has limited its most advanced technologies from reaching U.S. soil.
TSMC limiting its involvement to mass produce 2nm chips in the U.S. gives Samsung a massive opening with its Taylor plant, as it’s testing EUV equipment to push manufacturing
A report from Edaily states that some areas of Samsung’s Taylor plant have obtained a TCO, or Temporary Certificate of Occupancy, allowing specialized engineers to reach the site and expedite operations. Test production was previously reported to start in March, with over 7,000 employees stationed to bring the company’s plans to fruition. ASML, the Dutch manufacturer of highly advanced EUV machinery necessary for the mass production of 2nm GAA wafers, was also said to have sent its team to assist Samsung’s workers in equipment deployment.
Assuming trial production is a success, operations at the Taylor plant will begin this year, with full-scale manufacturing expected sometime in 2027. What’s strange about the report is that it mentions 4nm production, but we’ve already stated that Samsung intended the Taylor plant to be upgraded to the 2nm GAA process, which is miles ahead of the older lithography in technological refinements. It was also leveraged to fabricate the Exynos 2600. At present, Samsung has a number of U.S. customers for its 2nm GAA node, with its most lucrative being Tesla.
Additionally, the company has secured chip orders from American fabless firms and Cloud Service Providers, further cementing its stronghold in the country. TSMC has been unable to keep up with demand, as its 3nm production has become highly constrained, making Samsung a viable alternative for a truckload of customers. If there’s one area that the foundry can capitalize on, it’s to focus more on stabilizing yields. With this approach, the manufacturer can lower wafer costs and undercut TSMC further by offering discounts to customers in the near future.
News Source: Edaily
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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