➀ Rapidus is planning to build a second factory for 1.4nm process wafers; ➁ The first factory is being constructed in Chitose City, Hokkaido; ➂ The goal is to mass-produce 2nm wafers in 2027.

➀ Google is rumored to switch to TSMC's N3E process for Tensor G5; ➁ The report also clarifies that Google has chosen not to use 2nm technology for Tensor G6; ➂ The move could impact the competition in the AI and smartphone chip markets.

➀ Google's next-gen Tensor G6 processor, codenamed 'Malibu', will be built on TSMC's 2nm process node; ➁ The Tensor G6 is expected to power the upcoming Pixel 11 smartphone series; ➂ The new processor promises major performance and power improvements.

➀ Analog Bits showcased its on-die sensing IP and power management solutions at TSMC OIP; ➁ The company highlighted its progress in 3nm and 2nm technology nodes; ➂ Collaborations with Arm were discussed, focusing on power management and clocking IPs.

➀ Arm is exploring the feasibility of running LLMs on mobile devices; ➁ Arm's optimization techniques for LLMs on mobile; ➂ The importance of practical use cases for LLMs in mobile devices

➀ Electron Beam Probing (EBP) has become a powerful method for security analyzing of sub-7nm ICs. ➁ It offers better spatial resolution than optical probing and is suitable for sub-7nm flip-chips and advanced 3D architectures. ➂ The research focuses on the importance of EBP in failure analysis and hardware assurance.

1. Applied Materials introduces a new deposition tool that allows copper wires to be used in 2nm and more advanced process technologies. 2. The tool uses a binary RuCo liner to improve surface properties for copper reflow, reducing resistance by 25%. 3. The company also introduces an upgraded Black Diamond Low-K film to further reduce dielectric constant and increase mechanical strength for 3D stacking.

1. Samsung has unveiled its updated roadmap at the Samsung Foundry Forum U.S., detailing the evolution of its 2nm-class nodes through 2027. 2. The roadmap includes the introduction of BSPDN technology and the development of a 1.4nm-class node by 2027. 3. Samsung also rebranded its SF3P node to SF2, aiming at high-performance devices with improved PPA benefits.

➀ TSMC will start producing 2nm GAA-based wafers in Q4 2025 at Fab 20 in Hsinchu; ➁ The production will be followed by Fab 22 in Kaohsiung in Q1 2026; ➂ N2P production will start in late 2026 without backside power delivery; ➃ N2 and N2P will use TSMC's NanoFlex technology; ➄ N2 is 15% denser than N3E and improves performance by 10% to 15%; ➅ N2E will be followed by N2P and N2X in 2026; ➆ TSMC's planned capacity for 2nm is more than for 3nm; ➇ 2nm wafers are expected to cost $30k+.

➀ Introducing the Elegoo Neptune 4 Pro 3D printer at an affordable price; ➁ Review highlights fast print speeds and excellent quality; ➂ Special discount available on Elegoo's website

➀ Researchers from Queen Mary University of London have developed new nanocomposite films from starch, offering a sustainable alternative to petroleum-based materials; ➁ The films are made from abundant natural polymer starch and highly conductive MXene, with potential applications in electronics and sensing; ➂ The nanocomposites can be tailored for various uses, including wearable technology and healthcare, and are biodegradable.

➀ Alchip has taped out a 2nm test chip; ➁ The company expects results by the first quarter of next year; ➂ Alchip is working with customers on high-performance 2nm ASIC development.

➀ Raspberry Pi introduces the new AI HAT+ with two variants, 13 and 26 TOPS; ➁ The HAT+ is based on Hailo-8 neural network inference accelerators; ➂ The 26 TOPS variant is designed for larger networks and can run multiple networks simultaneously.

➀ Samsung Foundry faces challenges as it delays EUV orders; ➁ The low yields of Samsung's 3nm and 2nm processes may have led to cancelled orders; ➂ Samsung's pushback on equipment deliveries may impact its leading-edge foundry capability.

➀ Imec spin-off Brailsports is developing a platform for optimizing athlete training volumes and schedules based on data analysis; ➁ The platform uses AI models to estimate individual athlete fitness and fatigue, improving performance and reducing injury risk; ➂ The platform is currently operational at cycling team Lotto Dstny, with positive results.

➀ The research investigates the effects of adding TiC nanoparticles to aluminum alloy 7075, aiming to enhance casting performance and improve fluidity and surface quality; ➁ TiC nanoparticles were introduced in two concentrations, and their impact on fluidity and microstructure was analyzed; ➂ The results showed a significant improvement in fluidity and surface quality, with finer grain sizes and smoother surfaces.

➀ Rapidus, the Japanese startup aiming for 2nm manufacturing capability, faces a $7 billion funding gap. Three Japanese banks are investing $35 million each, with the Development Bank of Japan adding $70 million. ➁ Rapidus originally estimated a $14 billion cost for its 2nm pilot line and $7 billion for volume production. Now, the company forecasts another $7 billion is needed to establish the pilot line, with the total estimated at $35 billion. ➂ Rapidus is seeking additional investment from corporate backers and government support for its expansion plans.