Samsung Faces Challenges with High-End Nodes: 1.4nm Process Delayed to 2028, Shifting Focus to 2nm Technology

Recent developments have revealed that Samsung Foundry is facing significant challenges with its high-end chip manufacturing processes, specifically regarding the delay of its ambitious 1.4nm project.

Samsung’s 1.4nm Production Delayed; Focus Turns to a High-Potential 2nm Node

In the competitive landscape of semiconductor manufacturing, Samsung has struggled to meet the high expectations set for its chip foundry division. Recent reports indicate that the company has consistently encountered low yield rates in various advanced processes. A notable example is its 3nm Gate-All-Around (GAA) technology, which, despite being innovative, has not achieved the necessary yield for mass production.

In light of these setbacks, Samsung Foundry is pivoting its strategy to concentrate on the 2nm process. This shift means that the highly anticipated 1.4nm production is not only delayed but is now also set aside in favor of more promising avenues within the 2nm node. This change reflects Samsung’s assessment that it may be witnessing “positive” advancements with its 2nm technology.

Originally slated to initiate production in Pyeongtaek 2 by the second half of 2026, the 1.4nm project has now been put on indefinite hold. Sources, including a report from Sedaily, suggest that mass production for the 1.4nm process may not commence until 2028—almost two years later than initially planned, underscoring a lack of confidence in high-end nodes within the foundry.

Moreover, Samsung Foundry has been experiencing financial difficulties, reportedly posting losses over several consecutive quarters. As a response, the giant has decided to cut back on investments in its foundry sector, indicating a possible reduction in its overall chip production ambitions. Despite these challenges, Samsung is striving to ramp up its 2nm operations, with mass production expected to commence by the end of this year. Plans are also in place to expand 2nm capabilities to the United States early next year, suggesting an encouraging outlook for future operations.

Given the current challenges facing its previous processes and the growing intensity of competition from industry leaders like TSMC and Intel, Samsung is in urgent need of a breakthrough in its semiconductor sector.

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