Apple will reportedly feature a new A20 Pro SoC which is based on a 2nm process in the iPhone 18 Pro models, expected to launch in 2026. Now it looks like 2026’s Pro models will be way more expensive than the current ones.
In case you’re not familiar, Apple’s A series chip lineup introduced the A18 Pro in September 2024 along with the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max. The iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus have the A18 chip. Next year’s iPhone 17 Pro series will likely have an A19 Pro chip, while iPhone 17 might use an A19 chip.
The price hike could be due to an enhanced 2nm process
According to a report from Ctee (via tipster @Jukanlosreve on X), the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max will use the new Apple A20 Pro chip. This chip uses a 2nm process, which is much smaller and more efficient than the 3nm process used in current models.
The report says that TSMC will price 2nm wafers at over $30,000 each. And each A20 Pro chip will cost $85, which is 70% more than the current $50 chips. This additional $35 per chip could be a key factor behind the possible price hike for the Pro models.
However, the new chip will increase the A20 Pro’s performance and energy efficiency. It is noteworthy that the base iPhone 18 models may still use 3nm chips to keep them affordable.
Next year, TSMC will start mass production of its 2nm chips at its Kaohsiung facility in Taiwan. Apple and Nvidia will be among the first companies to procure chips made with TSMC’s new N2 node, reports GSMArena.
What other changes might the iPhone 18 Pro feature?
The iPhone 18 Pro lineup is rumored to have other big upgrades aside from the new chip. These may include an under-screen Face ID sensor which will reduce or eliminate the Dynamic Island on the display. Rumors suggest that Apple is working on variable aperture wide-angle lenses that will improve camera quality and provide better depth effects. The phone may feature an upgraded LTPO+ panel, which will replace the current LTPO, possibly for better brightness and smoother transitions.
Remember these are just speculations as the iPhone 18 series is still two years away. Apple is expected to launch the iPhone 17 series in 2025, so there’s plenty of time for more developments in tech and manufacturing.
2024-12-14 15:11:03