If rumors are to be believed, the upcoming Snapdragon 855 processor could be designed and manufactured by TSMC. The new development is in a sharp deviation from the previous counterparts. The Snapdragon 820 and the Snapdragon 835 processors were manufactured by Samsung. That’s why the Snapdragon 835 processor was released to other device manufacturers after the release of the Galaxy S8 series. There are reports that the Snapdragon 845 processor rumored to ship with the Samsung Galaxy S9 are also being manufactured by Samsung.
According to a report published by Nikkei Asian Review, the TSMC has bagged the contract to manufacture the core processor unit for the Snapdragon 855 and also a model chip. Moreover, the new modem chipset will launch before the end of Q2 2018 followed by the new Snapdragon 855 by the end of 2018. We can expect the launch during MWC 2019.
Previously, TSMC had manufactured Snapdragon 808 and Snapdragon 810 processors for Qualcomm. However, the Snapdragon 810 turned out to be fatal for the company because of overheating problems.
The excess heat is one of the biggest problem faced by Android smartphones and the main reason was attributed to the processor. The new Snapdragon *xx processors are manufactured in such a way that it cause less heat due to latest manufacturing technology such as 14nm and 10nm.
As per rumors, the forthcoming Snapdragon 855 processor will be designed with new features capable of handling AI-based algorithms similar to Kirin 90 and Apple A11. If you look at Apple A11, you will find the addition of a Neural engine, which is primarily used to detect the face. Industry analysts have confirmed the presence of AI-centric features on the Snapdragon 845 but it will be limited to task scheduling and core architecture.
The Nikkei Asian Review report also reveals the fact that the new Snapdragon processor will make use of TSMC’s 7nm manufacturing technology. The same report also discloses that Apple A12 chipsets will also be manufactured on the same technology.
It remains to be seen as to how effective the new 7nm processors will be. Will it be able to deliver enhanced performance without compromising speed? Let’s wait and watch.
