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Apple is nearing the start of mass production for its first U.S.-made A-series chips at TSMC's Arizona plant, Nikkei Asia reports.

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The report suggests that test production of the chips at the new TSMC plant near Phoenix has already been completed, and Apple is now in the final stages of verifying their quality and performance. The first batch of commercially viable chips could be ready for mass production as early as this quarter, pending the completion of quality assurance processes.

The factory is expected to produce A-series chips used in Apple devices, primarily for older iPhone models. A recent report suggested the facility would make the A16 Bionic chip for the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus, and the S9 chip for the Apple Watch Ultra 2. The commencement of mass production at the Arizona plant will mark the first time Apple silicon chips are manufactured in the United States.

Article Link: First iPhone Chips Made in America Soon to Start Mass Production
 
Can someone educate my ignorance?

Why on earth did TSMC decide to build their plant in Arizona? Doesn't chip manufacturing require MASSIVE amounts of water? Why not build the plant in somewhere like OH, PA, TN, MI, literally any state with an abundance of water? Seems really counterintuitive and a recipe for disaster down the road. Again, maybe that's just my ignorance on the topic. Would be happy to hear any insight.
 
I have to wonder how much shipping of unfinished components will still be going back and forth. As I understand it most of the rest of the components and final assembly is in China so doesn't this, for a while anyway, mean two trips back and forth instead of one?
The Idea here is "MADE IN THE USA" Production. Distribution logistics might be of secondary importance. China or in another scenario, India, etc. are more possible destinations for these parts.
 
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Can someone educate my ignorance?

Why on earth did TSMC decide to build their plant in Arizona? Doesn't chip manufacturing require MASSIVE amounts of water? Why not build the plant in somewhere like OH, PA, TN, MI, literally any state with an abundance of water? Seems really counterintuitive and a recipe for disaster down the road. Again, maybe that's just my ignorance on the topic. Would be happy to hear any insight.
Money & politics.

 
Can someone educate my ignorance?

Why on earth did TSMC decide to build their plant in Arizona? Doesn't chip manufacturing require MASSIVE amounts of water? Why not build the plant in somewhere like OH, PA, TN, MI, literally any state with an abundance of water? Seems really counterintuitive and a recipe for disaster down the road. Again, maybe that's just my ignorance on the topic. Would be happy to hear any insight.

Money and politics.
 
Can someone educate my ignorance?

Why on earth did TSMC decide to build their plant in Arizona? Doesn't chip manufacturing require MASSIVE amounts of water? Why not build the plant in somewhere like OH, PA, TN, MI, literally any state with an abundance of water? Seems really counterintuitive and a recipe for disaster down the road. Again, maybe that's just my ignorance on the topic. Would be happy to hear any insight.
Money and politics.
AZ was a big player in chip fabs in 80s and 90s. Motorola along with Intel had huge fabrication facility in AZ, which were shut down in 2000s and plants moved to Asia. Arizona has long history in semiconductors compared to any of the states you mentioned. Not everything has to be money and politics. ASU was key source of providing semi conductor talent, and they are converting old Motorola Manufacturing facility to specialized zone for fabs.
 
AZ was a big player in chip fabs in 80s and 90s. Motorola along with Intel had huge fabrication facility in AZ, which were shut down in 2000s and plants moved to Asia. Arizona has long history in semiconductors compared to any of the states you mentioned. Not everything has to be money and politics. ASU was key source of providing semi conductor talent, and they are converting old Motorola Manufacturing facility to specialized zone for fabs.
Wow! Thanks for the history lesson, I had no idea. Are they actually converting old facilities?
 
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I don't even understand the political aspect? AZ is as much a purple state as PA or GA, both have water. Unreal that they are building a billion dollar factory in a place without adequate natural resources.
I don't disagree but the company plans on about 74% recycled water after evaporation for its 3 fabs. What I thought was crazy is the water needed for all their fab facilities there will use as much water as 3 golf courses per year. How much freakin water does a golf course need!? I mean maybe we should be more worried about golf courses in these areas than the chip fabs. https://www.azcentral.com/story/mon...ew-chipmaker-any-cause-for-worry/75917812007/
 
Can someone educate my ignorance?

Why on earth did TSMC decide to build their plant in Arizona? Doesn't chip manufacturing require MASSIVE amounts of water? Why not build the plant in somewhere like OH, PA, TN, MI, literally any state with an abundance of water? Seems really counterintuitive and a recipe for disaster down the road. Again, maybe that's just my ignorance on the topic. Would be happy to hear any insight.
Geological stability is more important, and most of the water used can be re-used. Additionally, production benefits from a dry climate and humidity control - both harder to do in Ohio, PA, etc.

Plus, IIRC Intel has or will have a fab in Ohio, so it's probably better to spread manufacturing capacity around.
 
Geological stability is more important, and most of the water used can be re-used. Additionally, production benefits from a dry climate and humidity control - both harder to do in Ohio, PA, etc.

Plus, IIRC Intel has or will have a fab in Ohio, so it's probably better to spread manufacturing capacity around.
Great answer, didn't even think about humidity. Thanks!
 
Access to talent. Have to build where the people to employ are.
Costs to move materials. They are close to Mexico and California.
Costs of manufacturing. Could be cheaper in AZ, and with the other two needs above. Maybe good tax incentives, etc.
They may also be recycling the water they need, and or getting it shipped in at a rate they can accept.

I don't think its as much political as it is the reasons above. Politics matters of course, but if you lack the other things needed. They will not build it there.
 
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