Samsung is currently producing 14-nm FinFET logic chips for the upcoming Apple A9 SOC that will most likely end up used in the next generation of iPhones. Early reports had suspected that the new chips were intended for the Apple Watch, but that does not appear to be the case.
Both the South Korean and American electronics giants have agreed to set aside their differences and bring an end to an almost endless cycle of litigation of patents outside the US. In this case, it may indicate a greater amount of co-operation between the two; considering that Samsung is already supplying Cupertino with DRAM and NAND Flash memory chips.
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The new chips are being produced in Samsung’s plant in Texas to keep in with Apple’s pledge to keep manufacturing in the US, despite that Samsung also has another 14-nm FinFET production back in South Korea. It is unknown if this extra line will be opened to Apple as well, which would blur the line for the whole ‘made in America’ campaign.
Samsungs new chips are currently being advertised to potential clients as being 20-percent more powerful, while using 35-percent less power. The new 14-nm architecture would also allow for smaller chips that use up less space. Probably so manufacturers can have another round of trying to make the thinnest smartphone or tablet.
[Source: etnews]
