Up to date on: Aug 05, 2025 07:23 pm IST
TSMC has fired a number of staff for making an attempt to leak its 2nm chip expertise, which might be utilized in Apple’s A20 chips for the iPhone 18.
TSMC, the world’s most superior chipmaker and Apple’s key provider, has fired a number of staff for making an attempt to steal confidential info associated to its upcoming 2-nanometre chip expertise. This next-generation chip course of is predicted to energy Apple’s A20 processor within the iPhone 18 collection, set to launch subsequent yr.
The breach was found by way of inside monitoring methods that flagged uncommon entry exercise to extremely delicate growth knowledge, based on a report by Nikkei Asia. An inside investigation confirmed deliberate makes an attempt to exfiltrate commerce secrets and techniques. The implicated staff have been instantly dismissed, and authorized motion has been initiated. Taiwan’s prosecutors at the moment are concerned, and felony expenses are being thought of.
Whereas TSMC has not revealed the exact nature of the stolen info, sources recommend the try centered on the core parts of its 2nm chip manufacturing course of. This expertise represents a significant leap in effectivity and efficiency, not only for TSMC’s world management but in addition for Taiwan’s strategic place within the semiconductor race.
Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo believes Apple might be among the many first to make use of the brand new 2nm node, with the A20 chip prone to function in all iPhone 18 fashions. That may mark a major improve throughout the board, not only for the Professional variants.
The leak isn’t believed to contain Apple’s proprietary designs however targets TSMC’s general course of improvements, which type the inspiration for future Apple silicon. Nonetheless, the incident highlights the rising threats of IP theft within the semiconductor business, the place competitors is intense and stakes are excessive.
TSMC has acknowledged it’s going to push for optimum penalties towards these concerned. Defending its mental property, the corporate stated, is crucial to its continued dominance and nationwide safety pursuits.
