For a long time, Apple has relied on Samsung to manufacture their A-series of chipsets that have made their way into Apple’s iOS devices, like the iPhone and the iPad. However due to the legal battle between both Apple and Samsung, Apple has since looked for alternative manufacturers such as TSMC.
Now according to a recently leaked photo, the upcoming iPad Air 2 and possibly the third-gen iPad mini will be powered by an A8X chipset, a variation of the A8 found in the iPhone 6 and 6 Plus, but who will be responsible for the A8X? Well according to a report from DigiTimes, it seems that TSMC will be responsible for the production of the A8X.
Interestingly enough the report notes that the A8X will be used in the next-generation iPad that is pegged for a release in early 2015, which if the rumors are to believed could be in reference to the alleged 12.9-inch iPad Pro. The tablet is said to have been delayed to 2015 as Apple has decided to focus their efforts at meeting demand for the iPhone 6 Plus.
It’s interesting to note that TSMC will still be handling the A8X as Samsung has recently confirmed that they will be helping product the next-generation A-series chipset, which we guess would be the A9, not the A8X.
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