Apple will snub Samsung and call upon TSMC to exclusively produce all of its next-generation A10 processors for 2016’s iOS devices, according to a new report. It’s thought Apple considers TSMC’s chips to be superior to Samsung’s in performance and efficiency.
Apple’s new A9 processor, which ships inside the iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus, is being produced by Samsung and TSMC. Apple often employs multiple manufacturers to ensure a steady supply of components, which helps it meet the ever-increasing demand of its fans.
But if you’ve been following “Chipgate,” you’ll be aware that there are some differences between the A9 chips manufactured by Samsung and TSMC. While Samsung’s are slightly smaller, TSMC’s are more efficient and provide slightly better battery life.
Now it seems Apple is looking to make TSMC its sole supplier of A10 processors for next year’s iPhones and iPads. Chinese news network UDN, citing analysts at JP Morgan, claims the Taiwanese company has secured 100% of Apple’s A10 orders.
This isn’t the first time we’ve heard this; DigiTimes reported the same thing back in September based on an earlier report from another Chinese source, Commercial Times.
Despite this, we’re still a little skeptical Apple would rely on just one supplier to produce so many chips. iPhone sales reach new highs every year, and although iPad sales have been falling, they’re still pretty good — and could get a boost from the iPad Pro.
Take this one with a pinch of salt for now, then. Samsung might be Apple’s biggest enemy, but the Cupertino company has been unable to live without it until now.
Source: UDN
Via: G for Games
