Apple's MR Headset with Dual TSMC Processors to Transform Components Market

Apple's first Mixed Reality (MR) headset, which has been highly anticipated, is about to be released, according to industry sources. In order to enhance the imaging effect and provide a better user experience to stimulate sales, Apple's new MR device will feature dual processors, exclusively manufactured by TSMC. The cost of the dual processors is the second highest among all components of the MR device, making it a high-priced component. TSMC is set to start shipping the processors in the third quarter, boosting its performance in the second half of the year.

TSMC has a policy of not commenting on individual customers and order dynamics. Industry analysts speculate that TSMC has previously secured orders for manufacturing processors used in Apple's hardware such as the iPhone, iPad, MacBook, and Apple Watch. With the new large order for MR processors in the second half of this year, TSMC's advanced manufacturing capabilities are fully utilized. TSMC's stock price fell by NT$0.5 to close at NT$495.5 on the 15th.

Looking at the second half of this year, the high-end models of the iPhone 15 series are expected to be equipped with the latest 3-nanometer A17 processor produced by TSMC. The new MacBook models are also likely to incorporate the latest M-series processors manufactured using TSMC's 3-nanometer process. Combined with the addition of the new MR processor order, TSMC is poised to be the big winner with Apple's multiple product launches this year.

It is worth noting that Apple's previous hardware products have only used a single processor. If the MR device incorporates dual processors, it will be Apple's first attempt to use a dual-processor configuration, which is expected to significantly improve product performance. Market expectations suggest that the MR device will be powered by Apple's self-developed M-series processors, known for their outstanding performance. The order quantity for processors is expected to double from one per device to two, which will have a positive impact on TSMC's shipment volume.

The latest report from industry analysts also supports the rumors in the industry, specifically mentioning TSMC's exclusive contract for the dual processors in Apple's new MR device. The analysts also revealed that among the material costs for the new MR device, TSMC's dual processors rank second in terms of unit price, surpassed only by the Micro OLED display supplied exclusively by Sony. The third to fifth highest costs are attributed to the casing supplied by Catcher Technology, the 12 camera modules supplied by Largan Precision, and the external power supply provided by GoerTek.

According to industry analysts, if the sales of Apple's new MR product exceed expectations, head-mounted devices will quickly become the most important investment trend in the consumer electronics industry.

The market has high expectations for Apple's first MR device, with general speculation suggesting that Apple will unveil this product at the annual Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in June and begin mass production in September, with the majority of users receiving the product in the earliest fall. Foreign reports indicate that Apple has spent seven years developing this headset, twice the time it took for the iPhone, and the estimated selling price is $3,000 (over NT$90,000).