TSMC’s 3nm Process Enters Mass Production Phase: Monthly Wafer Output Expected to Reach 160,000 Units by End of 2025

During the third quarter of TSMC’s 2025 revenue cycle, the company’s 3nm process emerged as a significant powerhouse, contributing 23 percent of its total output and outpacing the previously dominant 5nm node. This development highlights the growing importance of the 3nm technology in TSMC’s portfolio as it enters what is being referred to as its ‘golden period’ of mass production, despite the upcoming 2nm process showing strong demand with local facilities already booked for 2026.

NVIDIA, Not Apple, is the Driving Force Behind TSMC’s 3nm Production Growth

Recent reports from Commercial Times reveal a remarkable uptick in TSMC’s 3nm production, which has escalated from 100, 000 wafers at the end of last year to a monthly figure between 100, 000 and 110, 000 wafers. Projections suggest this number could rise even further, potentially hitting 160, 000 units by the close of 2025. While many might assume Apple is TSMC’s primary ally due to increased iPhone 17 deliveries, the reality is that NVIDIA has taken the lead, contributing an impressive 35, 000 wafers each month.

Historically, TSMC experienced substantial demand for 3nm chips, primarily driven by Apple, which accounted for 24 percent of its total revenue in 2024. However, NVIDIA’s next-generation products, including the Vera Rubin and Rubin Ultra GPUs based on the 3nm ‘N3P’ architecture, are expected to dominate high-performance computing (HPC) markets for the following two years, potentially allowing NVIDIA to surpass Apple as the top client.

Market analysts speculate that TSMC’s 3nm process could capture over 30 percent of the market share by next year. Interestingly, Apple is currently developing four 2nm chipsets set to debut next year. Given that the tech giant is reported to have secured more than half of TSMC’s initial capacity for its System on Chips (SoCs), it stands a solid chance of retaining its status as the leading source of revenue for TSMC in 2026.

For more detailed insights, visit the original Commercial Times article.