Apple mobile processors are now made in America by TSMC (timculpan.substack.com)

Article summary

Some Apple mobile processors, including those used in the iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 15, are being manufactured in the US by TSMC. The production of these processors in the US is a result of TSMC's investment in a US-based facility. The discussion around this topic is focused on the implications of this development, including the potential impact on Apple's product lineup and the global semiconductor industry. The new iPhone SE is expected to use an A18-family SoC, which may be manufactured in the US.

Main themes

• US-based chip manufacturing
• Apple product lineup
• Global semiconductor industry
• Geopolitics and trade
• Apple Intelligence features
• Regulatory environment

What commenters say

• The production of Apple processors in the US is a significant win for the country's industrial policy and will contribute to the reinvigoration of US manufacturing.
• The new iPhone SE is expected to use an A18-family SoC, which may be manufactured in the US, and will likely feature improved performance and Apple Intelligence capabilities.
• The EU's DMA regulations may limit Apple's ability to roll out Apple Intelligence features to older devices, but this is not necessarily a result of the regulations themselves, but rather Apple's decision not to backport new tech to older devices.
• TSMC's investment in a US-based facility is a strategic move to reduce its dependence on Taiwan and mitigate the risks associated with the geopolitical situation in the region.
• The US government's CHIPS Act and other incentives played a crucial role in attracting TSMC's investment in the US, but some argue that this is a handout to corporations rather than a meaningful benefit to the common man.
• The production of Apple processors in the US may have significant geopolitical implications, including reducing China's potential advantage in the semiconductor industry and altering the risk-reward calculation for a potential invasion of Taiwan.
• Some argue that the EU's regulations are not the primary reason for Apple's decision not to enable Apple Intelligence in the EU, but rather the company's own strategic choices and priorities.
• The discussion around Apple's product lineup and manufacturing is closely tied to the company's ability to deliver Apple Intelligence features, which require powerful chipsets and significant investments in research and development.