Samsung Electronics will produce Apple's next-generation semiconductor at a foundry factory in the United States. It is understood that Samsung Electronics will mass-produce image sensors for Apple's new products through its production line in the U.S. An image sensor is a system semiconductor that detects light and converts it into electrical signals.
On the 7th, Apple officially announced, "We are collaborating with Samsung at its semiconductor factory located in Austin, Texas," and noted, "We are developing innovative new chip manufacturing technology that will be used for the first time in the world." It also stated, "This technology will first be introduced in the U.S. and will supply chips that optimize the power efficiency and performance of Apple products, including iPhones, which will be shipped worldwide."
Apple did not specifically disclose details about the products to be mass-produced and the scale of the orders. Samsung Electronics also mentioned, "We cannot confirm the client's name or other detailed specifics regarding the orders." However, industry sources believe that the chips ordered this time are image sensors to be installed in Apple's new iPhone products.
Until now, Apple's image sensors have been predominantly supplied by Sony. However, it is presumed that Apple is diversifying its supply chain ahead of next year's new product launch. The contracted image sensors are expected to be designed by Samsung Electronics' System LSI division and mass-produced and delivered by its foundry division.
Meanwhile, analyses suggest that this order could serve as a signal for the recovery of Samsung Electronics' foundry business, which has recorded trillions of won in losses each quarter and been a hindrance to performance. Prior to the Apple chips, Samsung Electronics secured orders related to Tesla's next-generation AI chips worth approximately 23 trillion won.