TSMC Plans First 1.4nm Chip Plant for 2027 as Apple Eyes A22 Pro

TSMC is moving quickly toward its next major chipmaking upgrade, even before its first 2nm processors reach the market. The company reportedly plans to complete its first 1.4nm fabrication plant in April 2027, followed by trial production later that year and mass production in 2028.

The new facility is under construction at the Central Taiwan Science Park near Taichung. TSMC reportedly plans to build four factories dedicated to the 1.4nm process, which the company calls A14.

TSMC prepares for 1.4nm production

The company is expected to begin pilot production during the third quarter of 2027, while full-scale manufacturing should start in 2028. TSMC has reportedly committed around $49 billion to the project, showing how much demand it expects from major technology companies.

Each factory could generate about $16 billion in annual revenue once production reaches full capacity. The investment also reflects growing demand for advanced chips used in smartphones, artificial intelligence systems, and high-performance computing products.

Apple will likely become one of the first customers to use the new process. Reports suggest the company plans to manufacture its A22 Pro chip using TSMC’s 1.4nm technology, which would give future iPhones better performance and improved power efficiency.

Samsung faces growing pressure

Samsung is also developing its own 1.4nm process, known as SF1.4, although its production schedule reportedly remains about one year behind TSMC.

The company has spent recent years improving the manufacturing yields of its 2nm technology. However, rising competition from TSMC and Intel is pushing Samsung to accelerate its plans for chips below the 2nm level.