Imagine a smartphone lasting weeks on a single charge 🚀, a laptop that renders 4K videos in seconds, or even a smartwatch that spots potential health issues early. All this innovation is driven by breakthrough advances in chip technology—shrinking circuits to a dazzling 2nm scale, where magic meets the microscopic world.
But what does 2nm really mean? Although the term "nanometer" once referred to the actual size of transistors, today it represents an advanced process technology engineered for speed and efficiency. Tech giants like Apple and Intel are racing to harness this power, all in a bid to stay ahead in the global tech arena.
Enter the invisible giant: ASML from the Netherlands. Its cutting-edge NXE lithography systems, which harness extreme ultraviolet (EUV) light to print circuits on silicon, have been at the forefront of powering the world’s fastest devices since 2018. Now, even Intel is testing its new EXE systems in hopes of reviving its chip-making prowess.
Yet, the race isn’t solely about technological marvels—it’s a global contest of strategy and trade. Most premium chips, including those powering Apple, Qualcomm, and many Intel products, are manufactured in the Taiwan region by Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC). While such collaborations fuel innovation, other nations face challenges. For example, due to trade constraints, China is largely relying on older 28nm technology, whereas Japan’s Rapidus is focusing on niche markets by importing ASML’s NXE machines.
This journey into the 2nm frontier isn’t simply about making chips smaller; it’s about unlocking a future filled with faster, smarter, and more energy-efficient devices. Stay tuned as we continue to explore how these tiny circuits are set to revolutionize our digital world!
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
