Apple A18 and A18 Pro Chips: A Closer Look at the Die Shots

Apple A18 and A18 Pro Chips: A Closer Look at the Die Shots

Tech enthusiasts, get ready! ChipWise has shared some fascinating die shots of Apple’s latest A18 and A18 Pro chips, which power the new iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro. These detailed images come from their upcoming smartphone teardown analysis, giving us a unique peek into the inner workings of Apple’s cutting-edge technology.

Let’s dive into what makes these chips so impressive!

Advanced Packaging with InFO-PoP

Apple continues to rely on TSMC’s InFO-PoP (Integrated Fan-Out Package-on-Package) technology for both the A18 and A18 Pro chips. This packaging technique stacks the DRAM package right on top of the System-on-Chip (SoC) die, using high-density RDL (Redistribution Layers) and TIV (Through InFO Via) to reduce chip size while optimizing thermal and electrical performance.

One of the best things about this method? The flexibility. The DRAM package can be swapped or replaced with ease, giving Apple more options to push performance improvements.

The A18 Chip: Built for Performance and Efficiency

The Apple A18 chip is built on TSMC’s advanced 3nm (N3E) process, designed to deliver better performance and improved power efficiency. Here’s what it packs:

  • 6-core CPU: Featuring 2 high-performance cores and 4 high-efficiency cores, this chip is built for handling both everyday tasks and more demanding apps with ease.
  • 5-core GPU: Optimized for gaming, augmented reality (AR), and high-resolution tasks, this GPU promises smooth graphics and responsive performance.
  • InFO-PoP Packaging: This technology helps ensure that the A18 delivers on both thermal and electrical performance.

The A18 Pro Chip: Powering the Pro Experience

The A18 Pro chip takes things up a notch, offering even more power for users who need extra muscle for intensive tasks. Like the A18, it’s built on the 3nm process, but it’s optimized for higher speeds and demanding applications. Here’s what sets the A18 Pro apart:

  • 6-core CPU: While it mirrors the A18’s core count, the A18 Pro is tuned to deliver even better processing performance, perfect for video editing, high-end gaming, and other heavy-duty tasks.
  • 6-core GPU: With an extra core, the A18 Pro’s GPU is built for 3D rendering, AR experiences, and graphics-intensive apps.
  • Upgraded Neural Engine: The A18 Pro features more cores in its Neural Engine, allowing for advanced AI and machine learning tasks to run faster and more efficiently.

What Do These Die Shots Tell Us?

Seeing the die shots of the A18 and A18 Pro gives us a deeper appreciation for Apple’s meticulous design and TSMC’s innovative manufacturing techniques. By using the 3nm process, Apple ensures that both chips deliver top-tier performance while keeping power consumption in check—perfect for keeping your iPhone running smoothly throughout the day.

The InFO-PoP packaging adds another layer of efficiency, ensuring that the chips stay cool and perform well under pressure, whether you’re editing a video, playing a high-res game, or multitasking.

These chips are just one of the many reasons why the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro are already making waves in the tech world!

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