qualcomm snubs intel: chipmaking tech 'not good enough'

2025-09-07 tsmc

taipei, Sunday, 7 September 2025.
qualcomm ceo cristiano amon has publicly rejected intel as a viable chip manufacturing partner. amon stated intel’s technology isn’t up to par. qualcomm will continue relying on tsmc and samsung. this is a blow to intel. intel hoped to win qualcomm’s business as it seeks to become a major chip foundry. the ceo said qualcomm might consider intel in the future. this depends on intel improving its manufacturing and producing more efficient chips.

tsmc’s strengthened market position

qualcomm’s decision to stick with tsmc reinforces tsmc’s dominance in the chip manufacturing industry [1]. tsmc’s advanced 4-nanometer process is currently used to manufacture qualcomm’s snapdragon x chips [2]. tsmc held a 70.2% share of the global wafer foundry market in the second quarter of 2024, far surpassing samsung’s 7.3% [4]. this decision by qualcomm is poised to positively influence investor perceptions of tsmc, bolstering confidence in its market leadership and anticipated revenue streams [GPT].

stock market impact and analysis

the taiwan stock exchange index closed up 1.3% on september 5, reflecting positive market sentiment [1]. the philadelphia semiconductor index also rose 1.65% on september 6 [1]. these indicators, combined with qualcomm’s continued reliance on tsmc, suggest a potentially favorable outlook for tsmc’s stock (tsm:nyse) [alert! ‘need real-time stock data for precise analysis’]. analysts suggest that tsmc’s ability to secure leading clients like qualcomm validates its technological prowess and operational efficiency [GPT].

manufacturing capacity and geopolitical considerations

qualcomm’s ceo, cristiano amon, noted that intel is investing heavily in manufacturing, which he views as a positive development for the industry, potentially leading to a more balanced supply chain [7]. however, qualcomm’s choice highlights concerns about intel’s current capabilities [3]. geopolitical factors also play a role, as governments worldwide are keen on securing domestic chip manufacturing capabilities [GPT]. tsmc’s established infrastructure and technological lead give it an edge in navigating these complex dynamics [GPT].

future outlook and tsmc’s advancements

tsmc is expected to begin mass production of its 2-nanometer process by the end of 2025 [4] [alert! ‘verify timeline’]. this continued innovation is crucial for maintaining its competitive edge and attracting top clients like qualcomm [GPT]. qualcomm anticipates significant revenue growth from areas outside of smartphones, projecting $22 billion by 2029 from automotive and connected devices [3][6]. tsmc’s role in enabling these advancements positions it favorably for sustained growth [GPT].

Bronnen

tsmc manufacturing qualcomm intel