Qualcomm CEO says TSMC, Samsung remain key suppliers

Qualcomm CEO says TSMC, Samsung remain key suppliers

Qualcomm CEO, Steve Mollenkopf, has reiterated that TSMC and Samsung remain crucial suppliers for the company's semiconductor needs. This statement comes amidst growing competition in the semiconductor market and Qualcomm's strategic expansion into the automotive technology sector [3].

The semiconductor market is experiencing significant growth, driven by advancements in technology and increasing demand for high-performance chips. Qualcomm, known for its Snapdragon processors, is at the forefront of this growth. The company's focus on integrating advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) and autonomous vehicle (AV) technologies has positioned it as a leader in the automotive tech sector [3].

Mollenkopf's confirmation that TSMC and Samsung are key suppliers underscores the importance of these foundries in the semiconductor industry. Both TSMC and Samsung have been investing heavily in advanced manufacturing technologies, including Extreme Ultraviolet (EUV) lithography, to meet the increasing demand for smaller and more complex chips [1].

Samsung, in particular, has been making strides in 2nm and 1.4nm wafer production. The company recently installed its first 1.4nm high-NA EUV machine and plans to begin mass production of 1.4nm chips in 2027 [1]. This investment aligns with Samsung's goal of reclaiming market share from TSMC, its dominant rival in the semiconductor space.

The South Korean government has also been supportive of Samsung's efforts, planning to remove tariffs on imported paraphernalia to help Samsung reach its desired goals [1]. This move aims to boost Samsung's competitiveness and facilitate the transition to sub-2nm wafers.

While Qualcomm's reliance on TSMC and Samsung for its semiconductor needs may seem risky, it reflects the company's strategy to focus on its core competencies in automotive technology and AI-driven solutions. By leveraging its strong partnerships and market position, Qualcomm is well-positioned to navigate the challenges and opportunities in the semiconductor industry.

References:
[1] https://wccftech.com/samsung-installed-first-1-4nm-high-na-euv-machine-in-march-to-compete-with-tsmc/
[2] https://www.digitimes.com/news/a20250904PD215/samsung-qualcomm-exynos-ap-2nm.html
[3] https://www.ainvest.com/news/qualcomm-strategic-expansion-automotive-tech-growth-catalyst-autonomous-driving-era-2509/