Samsung Nears Major 2nm AI Chip Deal with Tenstorrent, Challenging TSMC

Samsung Foundry is in advanced talks to manufacture next-generation artificial intelligence chips. The potential client is Tenstorrent, an AI hardware company led by renowned chip architect Jim Keller. This deal would utilize Samsung’s cutting-edge 2-nanometer (2nm) process technology. It marks a significant step in the global race for advanced semiconductor manufacturing.

According to Nikkei Asia, Tenstorrent is evaluating multiple foundries for its upcoming AI accelerators. The company is engaging with Samsung, TSMC, and Japan’s Rapidus. This move highlights the intense competition to secure production capacity for powerful AI chips.

Samsung’s 2nm Breakthrough and Key Partnerships

Samsung Foundry has reportedly begun mass production of its first 2nm chip, the Exynos 2600. This processor is expected to power the Galaxy S26 series next year. If successful, it would be the world’s first smartphone chip built on a 2nm node.

The company has already secured several high-profile clients for its 2nm technology. Orders have been confirmed from Ambarella, DeepX, Preferred Networks, and Tesla. These partnerships demonstrate growing industry confidence in Samsung’s advanced fabrication capabilities.

The Intensifying Battle for AI Chip Supremacy

Taiwan’s TSMC currently dominates the market for advanced process nodes. However, Samsung is aggressively positioning itself as a viable alternative. Landing a design win with Tenstorrent would be a major coup for the South Korean tech giant.

Jim Keller’s involvement brings significant weight to these negotiations. His expertise from AMD, Apple, and Tesla makes Tenstorrent a closely watched startup. Their choice of foundry partner will influence the broader AI hardware landscape.

This potential partnership underscores a pivotal shift in the semiconductor industry, positioning Samsung as a formidable contender in the high-stakes market for 2nm AI chips.

Info at your fingertips

What is a 2nm chip?

A 2nm chip refers to semiconductors built using a 2-nanometer manufacturing process. This smaller node allows for more transistors on a single chip, boosting performance and energy efficiency significantly.

Who is Jim Keller?

Jim Keller is a legendary chip designer known for his work on major processors at AMD, Apple, and Tesla. He is now the CEO of Tenstorrent, focusing on next-generation AI hardware.

Why is TSMC the current market leader?

TSMC holds the largest market share in advanced chip manufacturing. Its consistent execution and technological prowess have made it the preferred foundry for companies like Apple and Nvidia.

What other companies use Samsung Foundry?

Beyond its new 2nm clients, Samsung manufactures chips for various tech firms. It also produces its own Exynos processors for Galaxy smartphones and other devices.

When will 2nm phones be available?

The first smartphones with 2nm chips are expected to arrive in 2026. Samsung’s Galaxy S26 series is rumored to be among the first devices to feature this technology.