A recent report from Ming-Chi Kuo, a well-known industry analyst, indicates that Apple’s 2026 iPhone 18 lineup will feature cutting-edge 2nm processors, but not all models will benefit from this technology. The iPhone 18 Pro versions are expected to receive this upgrade, giving them a significant performance edge. Kuo’s analysis points to cost constraints as the reason why only select models—likely the Pro and possibly the Pro Max—will include the 2nm technology.
How Processor Sizes Impact Performance
The smaller the processor size, the more efficient and powerful the device. Apple has consistently been at the forefront of processor technology, and the shift to 2nm chips in 2026 would be another leap forward in smartphone performance. Faster processing, improved power efficiency, and better overall performance are among the benefits of moving to a smaller nanometer design. If only the Pro models feature this technology, it would solidify their status as the go-to devices for power users.
What’s Coming in 2025 with iPhone 17?
Before we get to 2026, Apple has its sights set on the iPhone 17 in 2025. According to Kuo, the iPhone 17 will be powered by TSMC’s N3P process, which is based on 3nm technology. While 3nm is still incredibly advanced, the N3P process reportedly provides only a slight 5% performance boost over the current N3E design. This means iPhone 17 users can expect moderate performance improvements, although the real game-changer seems reserved for the iPhone 18 lineup.
Why 2nm Chips Matter for Apple’s Future
For context, TSMC—the company behind the chips used in iPhones—has committed to launching its 2nm process in 2025. However, the production schedule means that mass availability may not align with the iPhone 17 release, which is why we’re seeing it delayed until the iPhone 18 Pro in 2026. By the time the iPhone 18 Pro arrives, TSMC’s 2nm processors will likely be among the most advanced available on the market, offering unprecedented speed and efficiency.
Who Will Get the 2nm Chips?
Apple’s strategy of differentiating between standard and Pro models isn’t new. In recent years, the base iPhones have used the processors from the previous year’s Pro models. For example, in 2024, the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus received the A18 processor, while the iPhone 16 Pro models featured the more advanced A18 Pro chip. This pattern is likely to continue with the iPhone 17 and iPhone 18 lines, with the 2nm processors being reserved for the higher-end Pro editions. The Pro Max, in particular, may be the only device to feature this technology in its earliest iteration.
Is the iPhone 18 Pro Worth the Wait?
For tech enthusiasts and power users, the leap to 2nm in the iPhone 18 Pro could be worth holding out for. This upgrade is expected to deliver faster chips, better energy efficiency, and a smoother user experience. However, if you’re more of a casual user, the performance boost from 3nm to 2nm might not be a game-changer for everyday tasks. It will likely come down to personal preferences and use cases.
The Road to 2nm
Apple’s innovation continues with each new iPhone release, and the 2026 iPhone 18 Pro models are set to push the boundaries of what smartphones can do. While the 2025 iPhone 17 models will already feature improved 3nm processors, the big jump in processing power won’t come until the 2nm chips arrive. Whether you choose to upgrade to the iPhone 17 or hold out for the iPhone 18, Apple’s upcoming processor technology promises to set new standards in mobile performance.
