While Qualcomm asked for 2nm samples from Samsung & TSMC for Snapdragon 8 Gen 5, Samsung has bagged actual orders from a Japanese startup, Preferred Networks (PFN). PFN's choice to team up with Samsung over TSMC for its 2nm tech opens up new opportunities for both parties.
PFN's skills in deep learning for IoT apps make it a valuable partner for Samsung. With resources and know-how in creating custom software and providing supercomputers, PFN stands out as one of Japan's most advanced firms.
PFN could help Samsung work with more prominent tech firms for 2nm chip orders
The partnership with PFN could help Samsung work with more prominent tech firms for 2nm chip orders. The alliance with PFN promises cash for further development of the 2nm process nodes and opens doors for future work with PFN's existing partners like Intel and NVIDIA. This clever move by Samsung shows its efforts to get ahead in the competitive semiconductor market and catch up with TSMC.
Samsung's decision to offer juicy discounts on its 2nm wafers to PFN shows its commitment to getting its first customer for the next-generation node. Using pricing strategies and strategic partnerships, Samsung aims to challenge TSMC's lead in advanced chip making. However, there are doubts about Samsung's ability to sort out yield problems in its 3nm GAA process, which could affect its competitiveness in the long run.
While TSMC is known for charging a lot for its top-notch tech, Samsung's possible edge lies in offering competitive pricing for its 2nm chips. As the semiconductor scene changes, Samsung's work with PFN shows its determination to innovate and grab market share in the cut-throat semiconductor industry. More details about Samsung Foundry's work with tech giants and the development of the 2nm process are likely to come out as time goes by.