Adding more weight to the rumors, DigiTimes is reporting that TSMC is getting ready to develop an integrated AP/ GPU solution for the Cupertino-based technology giant, Apple. According to Digitimes Research analyst Nobunaga Chai, TSMC will be using its 20nm SoC process technology for the purported AP/ GPU solution. Additionally, backing up our previous report, Chai also believes that TSMC is already working on engineering samples of Apple’s A6X chips using 28 nanometer process. These chips will soon power Apple’s next-generation iPads and iPad mini tablets, which, according to Chai, will be launched later this year.
However, Chai noted that the foundry’s first chip orders from Apple are unlikely to arrive this year. Chai also pointed out that while TSMC’s 20 nanometer process technology will most likely secure its first chip orders to Apple, its 16 nanometer FinFET process will be the real game changer and will play a huge role in Apple’s upcoming breakthrough product. DigiTimes did not specify the name of the product that will use the foundry’s 16 nanometer FinFET process. Chai wraps it up saying that TSMC’s 20 nanometer process will enter mass production not earlier than Q4 this year and not later than Q1 next year. TSMC’s 16 nanometer FinFET process, on the other hand, is expected to enter production in less than a year.