Samsung Eyes AMD as Key Customer for Its 2nm Chip Production
Samsung Foundry is reportedly in discussions with AMD to supply chips using its advanced 2nm (SF2) process technology. This move could mark a significant step for Samsung as it aims to regain momentum in the competitive semiconductor foundry market. The talks suggest that AMD’s next-generation CPUs, likely the EPYC Venice series, could be manufactured using Samsung’s cutting-edge node, signalling a potential shift in AMD’s chip production strategy.
Details on the Collaboration and Technical Prospects
According to reports from Sedaily, Samsung and AMD are working closely to evaluate whether the SF2 process can meet AMD’s stringent performance requirements. The contract discussions are expected to conclude around January next year, with production plans contingent on successful testing outcomes. Samsung’s 2nm technology promises enhanced performance and efficiency, which would be crucial for AMD’s high-performance server CPUs.
The EPYC Venice processors, currently being fabricated on TSMC’s 2nm node, are prime candidates for this collaboration. Given the supply constraints faced by TSMC, AMD’s decision to diversify its foundry partners makes strategic sense. While there is also speculation about Samsung potentially fabricating AMD’s Olympic Ridge consumer CPUs, their later launch timeline in late 2026 suggests that the immediate focus is on the EPYC Venice line.
Context: Samsung’s Foundry Ambitions and Market Position
Samsung has historically struggled to become a mainstream foundry choice for major clients, with TSMC dominating the market and attracting big names like Apple, AMD, and Tesla. However, recent improvements in Samsung’s foundry capabilities have led to significant contracts with Apple and Tesla, boosting its credibility and market presence. The potential addition of AMD as a 2nm customer would further solidify Samsung’s position as a serious challenger to TSMC.
For AMD, adopting a dual-sourcing strategy for chip production is becoming increasingly important amid growing demand driven by AI and data centre applications. While Intel Foundry is another alternative, many customers remain cautious, awaiting the performance of Intel’s upcoming 18A and 14A nodes before committing.
What to Expect Next
Samsung plans to begin prototyping AMD chips soon, and if these early tests meet expectations, we could see a breakthrough in AMD’s manufacturing partnerships. This development not only highlights the intensifying competition in the semiconductor foundry space but also underscores the strategic moves companies are making to secure supply chains and meet rising performance demands.
As the industry watches these negotiations unfold, the coming months will be critical in determining whether Samsung can reclaim a larger share of the foundry market by becoming a key supplier for AMD’s next-generation CPUs.