Previously Apple was quite reliant on Samsung for a number of components not least of which being their iPad and iPhone screens as well as their processor chips. Since Samsung is now their biggest competitor, both in the smartphone as well as the tablet market, it seems prudent that Apple distance themselves and they have apparently done so. Recently Apple decided to use screens from Innolux Corp for its iPad mini touchscreens. While Samsung was originally the one to sever this contract with Apple, it is a telling sign of things to come.
This is especially true when rumours regarding Apple's next processor chip supplier have surfaced. This time around Apple are looking at the Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) to fabricate their new A7 chip (which may power the next generation iPad or iPhone). Apple's A7 chip processor is rumoured to be using the 20 nanometer fabrication process which should make the chip more energy efficient. Related rumours have indicated that the A7 probably won't be featured in the Apple iPhone 5S and instead may use a modified A6X chip.
TSMC has also reported that it is ready to produce 20nm fabrication projects along with even smaller fabrication projects going all the way down to 16nm. TSMC are also aiming for 10nm fabrication processes as well but this is a bit later in the year.
[Source]
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