Apple’s most recent iPhone models offer better battery life than any of their rivals — and it could be about to get even better. Cupertino is reportedly preparing a new 5G chip that is even more efficient for iPhone 14.
Supply chain sources say the chip will be manufactured exclusively by TSMC using its latest 6-nanometer process, with Samsung losing out on orders.
TSMC builds more efficient 5G chips for iPhone 14
TSMC is already one of Apple’s largest chip manufacturing partners, responsible for building all the A- and M-series chips that power iPhone, iPad and the newest Mac models. And it looks like it’s going to get busier.
“TSMC squeezed out Samsung with advanced processes and eats Apple’s fifth-generation mobile communication (5G) related radio frequency (RF) chip orders,” reports Taiwan’s Economic Daily News.
Industry sources believe Apple reached an exclusive deal with TSMC because — in addition to its more advanced production processes and trusted quality control — it offers greater and more stable production capacity.
“The relevant chips will be produced using TSMC’s 6nm process,” its best yet for RF chips, the report adds. They are expected to bring enhanced performance, Wi-Fi 6/6e support, and greater power efficiency.
Freeing up space in iPhone 14
And that’s not all. Thanks to the more advanced manufacturing process, TSMC’s new 5G chips are smaller than their predecessors. That will free up some space inside iPhone 14 that could be taken up by other components.
Apple may choose to use slightly larger batteries, extending battery life even further. This will help eliminate one of the biggest complaints of 5G connectivity so far — how quickly it eats up juice.
