That it can get that price for 3nm is to some extent dependent on it having no competition.
Samsung started its GAA 3nm production in June but reports say yields are under 20%.
Intel is in the hunt and, according to Scotten Jones: “If Intel releases Intel 3 next year they will have a foundry process that is competitive on density and possibly the leader on performance.”
Intel’s 3nm will, like Samsung’s, be GAA.
TSMC won’t bring in a GAA process until its 2nm node – due for introduction in H2 2025.
By that time, Intel plans to be on its second generation GAA process which it calls its 18A process and Intel’s equivalent to TSMC 2nm .
Intel has said that it will regain process technology leadership in 2025.
One of the biggest customers paying TSMC $20k for 3nm wafers, and so helping to fund TSMC’s 2nm development programme is, of course, Intel.
