Apple is working hard to continue the success they’ve had with their M-series processors. The company is reportedly planning to announce several new MacBook models, including a larger 15-inch MacBook Air. According to the latest rumors, these devices, along with future iPad Pro models, will be powered by TSMC’s next-generation N3E process. Here are the details…

Apple M3 for MacBook Air and Future iPad Pro Models Rumored to Use TSMC’s Advanced N3E Process

TSMC’s N3E process is believed to be an improved iteration of the N3, which could be used for the A17 Bionic. Apple is rumored to be going solo on its 3nm journey, with a report from China Times suggesting that the iPhone maker has ordered TSMC’s entire supply of the advanced manufacturing process. This means that Apple will be the first company in the world to release a system-on-a-chip (SoC) based on this cutting-edge technology.

Apple M3 MacBook

Previous rumors suggested that the A17 Bionic and M3 chipsets would be fabricated on TSMC’s 3nm, or N3 process. However, the new report indicates that the M3 SoC for Apple’s ARM-powered notebooks will be made using the N3E process. This could result in slightly better performance and power efficiency compared to the regular N3 process.

There has been some confusion around TSMC’s naming schemes and the exact process that Apple will use for its upcoming M3 and A17 Bionic chips. Nikkei previously reported that Apple would rely on TSMC’s N3E node, while other sources suggested the N3 technology would be used for both chipsets. Earlier rumors also claimed that Apple had reduced the performance goal of the A17 Bionic due to TSMC’s struggles with its 3nm chip production.

Apple M3 MacBook

It is possible that TSMC has found more success with the N3E variant, resulting in better yields and prompting Apple to make the jump to this improved process. However, it is essential to treat this information with caution, as the A17 Bionic and M3 could still be based on the N3 process. We will continue to keep Gizmochina readers updated on Apple’s future plans as more information becomes available.

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