Samsung’s 4nm process yield rate catches up with TSMC

Previously, reports indicated that Samsung seemingly resolved a series of obstacles in their 4nm process, with the third-generation 4nm yield rate surging to 60%. Although specific timelines or improvements were not mentioned, rumors suggest that Samsung’s third-generation 4nm process enhances performance, reduces power consumption, and increases density.

According to DigiTimes, Samsung’s progress in the 4nm process may exceed external expectations, rising from 60% to over 70%. While still trailing TSMC’s 4nm process at 80%, Samsung’s 4nm yield rate has significantly improved. Industry insiders claim that Apple’s management meeting records show their estimate of Samsung’s 4nm yield rate is nearing TSMC’s.

Samsung’s yield rate enhancement in the 4/5nm process corresponds to rumors of 12-inch wafer foundry utilization rates climbing from 80% to 90%. Samsung previously announced in their “2022 Business Report” that they have secured stability in yield rates for their second and third-generation 4nm processes, with plans for mass production in the first half of 2023.

Samsung’s 4nm process began with 4LPE, grappling with yield rates. However, subsequent second-generation 4LPP and third-generation 4LPP+ versions have seen upgrades in performance, power consumption, and density. Coupled with the yield rate improvement, expectations are high. Google’s Pixel 8 series smartphones will feature the Tensor G3 chip later this year, and the forthcoming product launch will reveal the extent of Samsung’s progress in their 4nm process.