Samsung Delays 1.4nm Chip Process to 2029, Prioritizing 2nm Yields

Chip buyers face a shifting landscape in semiconductor manufacturing as Samsung reportedly delays its 1.4nm process timeline. The foundry giant has moved its mass production schedule for the SF1.4 node from 2027 to 2029. This adjustment gives the company more time to stabilize yields for its newer 2nm and second-generation 2nm technologies. The delay matters because it alters the competitive race for next-generation AI chips and high-performance computing components.

Foundry giant pauses next-gen lithography to stabilize 2nm yields before 2029 launch

Samsung is redirecting its engineering resources toward stabilizing its Gate-All-Around (GAA) architectures. The company prioritizes the SF2 and SF2P processes to ensure reliable production before advancing to the 1.4nm node. This strategic pause contrasts with TSMC, which is reportedly scheduled to begin mass production of 1.4nm technology in 2028. Samsung will thus trail TSMC by one year in the deployment of this advanced lithography standard.

The financial stakes for these advanced nodes are significant for manufacturers and their clients. TSMC’s 1.4nm wafers are estimated to cost $45,000 each, while its 2nm wafers are priced at $30,000. Samsung’s renewed focus on 1.4nm commercialization aims to offer Apple a dual-sourcing alternative to TSMC and potentially Intel. Apple reportedly considered moving to 1.4nm after using TSMC's 2nm process for only two years to secure chip supply amid AI demand.

This supply chain diversification strategy allows major tech firms to mitigate risks associated with single-source dependencies. By restarting commercialization efforts for the SF1.4 node, Samsung positions itself as a viable secondary supplier for critical components. The move supports broader industry efforts to stabilize production capacities for AI-driven hardware. We touched on Samsung Exynos 2600 Uses Half-Size LPDDR5X in our earlier Samsung coverage.

Samsung’s adjusted roadmap confirms a one-year delay for its 1.4nm mass production relative to previous reports. The company remains focused on yield stabilization for its 2nm and SF2P technologies. TSMC maintains a one-year lead in the 1.4nm deployment schedule. Apple continues to evaluate its chip sourcing strategy to balance performance needs with supply security.