Samsung Unveils Performance Results for Its 2nm Technology Process
Samsung Electronics has released the technical data and performance specifications for its 2nm production, thereby escalating the next-generation semiconductor manufacturing competition. The new information provides quantitative assessment of the performance metrics of its GAA technology.
Samsung's 2nm Process Key Performances Improvements
The third quarterly earnings report of Samsung states that the industries' first-generation 2nm GAA process has begun showing promising improvements over the 3nm second-generation:
- Up by 5% for performance.
- Up by 8% in efficiency.
- Down by 5% on area.
Competition in the Foundry Market with TSMC
Leading the semiconductor foundry market is Taiwan's TSMC, which commands a 70.2% global share, while Samsung Electronics holds 7.3%. TSMC staunchly secured this position with stable 3nm yields and major customers like Apple and NVIDIA. But there are speculations of a transformation in favor of other competitors with the beginning of 2nm technology.
GAA Technology Benefits
Both Samsung and TSMC will use GAA transistor architecture for the 2nm process. While this is TSMC's first time using the technology, Samsung has a generational head start by using GAA for its 3nm process. The GAA architecture aims to minimize current leakage and enhanced performance and power efficiency in a significant manner, when compared to traditional FinFET designs.
Samsung Will Compete on Price and Partnerships
Pricing matters may induce a heavy market shift. TSMC is reportedly planning a price hike of 10-20% for its 2nm wafers. In contrast, Samsung is said to be developing a flexible pricing strategy, which has paid off with Tesla diversifying its 'AI5' vehicle chip production between the two foundries and awarding Samsung the entire contract for its next-generation 'AI6' chip.
The Ultimate Test The Exynos 2600
Samsung will manufacture the Exynos 2600 application processor using the 2nm process, which will appear in the Galaxy S26 series next year. This self-developed chip's performance will directly showcase the capabilities of Samsung Foundry's 2nm process.
The Most Important Yield Rate
The most concerning factor remains production yield. Earning above a 60% yield is regarded as feasible for mass production purposes.
- TSMC has achieved a reported 80% yield on its 2nm process.
- Samsung is reported to have improved its yield to the 50-60% range.
An industry observer opined, "It seems that Samsung is starting to showcase its 2-nanometer competitiveness in the marketplace since the Exynos 2600 with the 2-nanometer process will be completely launched into the market next year, the success of Exynos will corroborate the competitiveness of Samsung's 2-nanometer technology."
