In 2026, we can expect to see more chipsets built on the 2nm process. At the moment, TSMC is leading the charge, but what’s beyond 2nm? The next step is 1.4nm, and it looks like the development of the technology is already ahead of schedule at TSMC.

TSMC 1.4nm development ahead of schedule

According to a post on X by Ray Wang , TSMC’s 1.4nm process is ahead of schedule. The company’s A14 node has achieved “yield performance” ahead of schedule. This marks a significant milestone in the development of 1.4nm chip technology. The A14 process will be TSMC’s next major leap beyond its upcoming 2nm offerings.

Based on what we know of the A14 process, we can look forward to some impressive performance gains. The A14 process will deliver up to 15% performance improvement at the same power consumption, or 25% to 30% lower power consumption at the same frequency, compared to its N2 process.

We can also expect to see 20% higher logic density thanks to its 2nd-generation GAAFET nanosheet transistors and new NanoFlex Pro standard cell architecture.

So, what does this mean?

For those unfamiliar, semiconductor makers like TSMC are aiming to make its processes smaller and smaller. A smaller process basically means that more transistors can fit onto the chip. This means more power and better energy efficiency.

In the case of TSMC’s A14 process, the company designed it to drive AI transformation forward. This is achieved by delivering faster computing and greater power efficiency, particularly for smartphones by improving their on-board AI capabilities. This means more on-device AI processing versus sending it to the cloud. It’s better in terms of speed and privacy.

The power efficiency gains are especially important for mobile users. A 30% reduction in power consumption could translate to significantly longer battery life.

That being said, don’t expect to see 1.4nm chips anytime soon. TSMC is expected to begin production in 2028. This means that until then, we can look forward to more 2nm chips and various iterations and improvements of it. We also don’t know how much these 1.4nm chips will cost. TSMC’s 2nm tech and 3nm chips are already said to be pretty expensive , so 1.4nm will probably drive those prices up even more.

Plus, with the Trump administration’s tariffs and push for more US-based manufacturing, that could have an impact on overall costs as well.