Qualcomm and MediaTek to jump to TSMC’s 2nm N2P
Qualcomm and MediaTek plan to manufacture their next flagship mobile processors using an advanced version of TSMC’s upcoming 2nm technology, potentially giving them an edge over Apple’s chips. Reports indicate the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 and Dimensity 9600 will use the N2P variant rather than the standard N2 process that Apple may adopt for its A20 series.
The strategic choice reflects efforts by Android chipmakers to close performance gaps with Apple silicon. Cupertino’s A19 Pro currently delivers superior efficiency scores in benchmark tests compared to the latest Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 and Dimensity 9500 processors. Apple’s longstanding experience designing custom processor cores gives it substantial advantages in power efficiency, with this year’s efficiency cores achieving 29 percent better performance without increased power draw. Qualcomm recently entered custom core development through its Nuvia purchase, while MediaTek continues relying on ARM’s standard designs.
Production capacity may also influence the decision, as Apple reportedly secured over half of the initial 2nm supply allocations. Analysts project TSMC will produce only 15,000 to 20,000 wafers monthly by late 2025. The N2P process enters mass production during the second half of 2026.
