Samsung to Delay 1.4nm Node Construction

Samsung Electronics has postponed the construction of its planned 1.4nm test production line, initially scheduled to begin in Q2 2025. According to industry sources on June 23, investment in this next-generation process node has been deferred to late 2025 or possibly the first half of 2026. As a result, the availability of Samsung's 1.4nm process—originally slated for 2026—may now be delayed until around 2028.

The decision comes amid a downturn in the global semiconductor foundry market. In Q1 2025, Samsung's foundry division reportedly incurred losses of around KRW 2 trillion. In response to weakening customer demand and declining revenue, Samsung has cut its annual capital expenditure on semiconductor equipment from KRW 10 trillion to roughly KRW 5 trillion, adopting a more conservative investment approach.

For now, Samsung is shifting its strategic focus toward internal optimization and accelerating development of its 2nm process node, which is expected to begin mass production by the end of 2025. CTO Nam Seok-woo of the foundry division is currently leading a dedicated task force to ensure timely development and ramp-up of the 2nm technology.

Notably, Samsung's System LSI division is already leveraging the 2nm node to fabricate the upcoming "Exynos 2600" application processor, which is set to launch later this year. There is speculation that Samsung's mobile division may integrate the chip into its next flagship smartphone, the Galaxy S26, enhancing the commercial viability of 2nm production.

Samsung is also pursuing advanced process collaborations with major North American tech companies, reportedly including Tesla and Qualcomm. The company is considering implementing 2nm production capabilities at its newly built Taylor, Texas fab. Depending on customer demand, Samsung is evaluating the potential to convert parts of its Hwaseong S3 fab—currently producing 3nm chips—into a 2nm production line before the end of the year.