TSMC is already testing next-generation chips using 1,4 nanometer technology

Taiwanese semiconductor giant TSMC has already begun pilot production of the latest microchips using 1,4 nanometer technology. This is the earliest stage of equipment testing, bringing a new era in the development of ultra-powerful and energy-efficient processors for computers and smartphones.

Equipment testing and the geography of new factories

The test batch of chips named A14 was rolled out at the Sinchiju Science Park sites and at the "Factory 25" in the Central Taiwan Science Park. Specialists are testing the complex equipment and fully tuning all production processes before allocating major resources for large-scale production, according to Wccftech with reference to Taiwanese media.

The new A14 technological process will provide a significant increase in transistor density and will serve as the core of chips for many years. Compared with 2-nanometer node N2, the new solution guarantees higher operating speed by 10 – 15 percent at the same energy consumption level.

If the previous speed level is preserved, using the new technology allows reducing power consumption by 25 – 30 percent.

Timeline of mass production and further prospects

Between technologies at 2 nanometers and 1,4 nanometer, the company has placed the intermediate node A16 at 1,6 nanometer. Official mass production with the A14 technology starts in 2028 year, despite reports of a possible launch of a separate line at the end of 2027 year.

In 2029 year TSMC plans to move to the A13 process at 1,3 nanometer, which will reduce crystal area by 6 percent. The A13 design rules are fully compatible with A14, allowing the company to easily adapt existing production lines for the release of newer chips.

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