Tech News: TSMC's A16 Process Creates Buzz Before Mass Production

Recent industry reports reveal that Apple is not the only major client securing early allocations of TSMC ’s A16 production capacity. OpenAI , driven by its growing demand for proprietary AI chips, has also joined in on securing a share of A16 production, becoming a significant factor in extending the visibility of TSMC’s AI-related orders.

In response to these developments, TSMC stated on August 30 that the company does not comment on market rumors or discuss individual client matters.

Amidst widespread speculation, the A16 process by TSMC has yet to enter mass production, but initial clients are already emerging. Notably, in addition to ongoing collaboration with Apple, a new major player has surfaced: OpenAI, the developer behind ChatGPT. OpenAI is heavily invested in developing its own ASIC chips.

Sources indicate that OpenAI initially considered collaborating with TSMC to build a dedicated wafer fab. However, after assessing the potential benefits, the plan to construct a dedicated facility was shelved. Instead, OpenAI is partnering with U.S. companies like Broadcom and Marvell to develop its ASIC chips, with OpenAI poised to become one of Broadcom’s top four clients.

Both Broadcom and Marvell are longstanding TSMC clients, and the ASIC chips being developed in collaboration with OpenAI are expected to be produced using TSMC’s 3nm technology and subsequently the A16 process.

OpenAI’s role is pivotal not only in the development of AI applications but also in advancing AI functionalities in Apple devices. Apple’s introduction of the personalized intelligent system, Apple Intelligence, in June, which integrates ChatGPT, highlights OpenAI’s crucial role in Apple’s AI advancements. As OpenAI continues its ASIC chip development, it is set to maintain a strong influence in the AI computing arena.

The A16 process represents TSMC's most advanced technology node revealed to date and marks the company's entry into the new era of FinFET technology. Scheduled for mass production in the second half of 2026, the A16 process will first be manufactured in Taiwan.

TSMC has previously introduced that the A16 process will utilize next-generation nanosheet transistor technology and innovative Super-Polysilicon (SPR) technology—a groundbreaking, industry-first backside power delivery solution.

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