Apple is preparing for a historic change in its lineup of mobile processors. In 2026, with the launch of the iPhone 18, the Cupertino company will release three different variants of its new A20 chip, marking the first time it has diversified so extensively within a single generation of the A series.
This move coincides with another milestone: it will be the first 2-nanometer processor manufactured by TSMC, after Apple secured almost half of the initial wafer production exclusively. This leap promises notable improvements in performance, energy efficiency, and graphics power, but also reflects a deeper strategic shift: chip segmentation to further differentiate among models.
The precedent of the A19 in the iPhone 17
The strategy began to take shape this year. The iPhone 17 introduced the A19 in the standard model and two variants of A19 Pro:
- A19 (iPhone 17 Air): 6-core CPU (2 performance cores, 4 efficiency cores) and 5-core GPU.
- A19 Pro (second-generation iPhone Air): same CPU, 5-core GPU.
- A19 Pro (iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max): same CPU, 6-core GPU.
Although the CPU was identical across all variants, Apple used chip binning (disabling GPU cores) to offer different performance levels under the same commercial name. While this approach has been seen in previous generations, it was the first time the company introduced three distinct SoCs within the same A family.
What to expect from the A20 in 2026
Based on leaks and analyst projections, Apple will repeat this approach with the A20 family:
- iPhone Air (second-generation) → A20 standard, with 6-core CPU (2+4) and 5-core GPU.
- iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max → A20 Pro, with the same CPU but 6-core GPU for enhanced graphics performance.
- Foldable iPhone (Apple’s first foldable) → A20 Pro, identical configuration to traditional Pro models.
This would establish a clear segmentation: the “full” A20 would be reserved for premium models and the foldable, while the Air would retain a truncated version to differentiate tiers.
The leap to 2 nanometers
Beyond segmentation, the A20 will mark the debut of TSMC’s 2 nm lithography. This new generation of chips promises:
- Higher transistor density → more power in the same space.
- Lower energy consumption → better battery life in the iPhone 18.
- Improved graphics → advantage in gaming and augmented reality applications.
- Enhanced on-device AI support → continuing the trend of integrating advanced neural engines for local AI model execution.
Apple’s prioritized access to this process—thanks to its agreements with TSMC—could give it one or two years of technological advantage over rivals like Qualcomm, Samsung, and MediaTek.
Why this diversification strategy?
Apple seems to have found a business balance in chip differentiation:
- Better tier segmentation: more reasons for users to upgrade to Pro or foldable models.
- Optimized production: utilizing chips with minor defects (partially disabled GPU cores) to reduce waste.
- Setting the stage for the future: some analysts believe this approach could also extend to Mac M processors, where variations are already being offered in clipped or expanded versions.
The result is a more graduated catalog, but also one that’s more complex to communicate to end users.
The future of the iPhone 18 lineup
In 2026, the lineup is expected to be as follows:
- iPhone Air (second-generation) → standard A20 chip.
- iPhone 18 Pro / Pro Max → A20 Pro with full GPU.
- First foldable iPhone → also with A20 Pro.
The base model of the iPhone would be phased out, reinforcing the idea that the Air will become the “bridge” between entry-level and Pro tiers, according to leaks.
Conclusion
The A20 and its variants arriving in 2026 will mark the most significant shift in Apple’s chip strategy since the rollout of its own processors. The move to 2 nanometers will be a milestone for performance and efficiency, but the most intriguing aspect will be how Apple continues to use chip binning to differentiate models and strengthen segmentation.
The remaining question is whether users will see this strategy as an advantage—more options tailored to different profiles—or as an unnecessary complication in the purchasing experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many A20 chips will Apple launch in 2026?
Three are expected: a A20 standard for the iPhone Air and two A20 Pro variants for the iPhone 18 Pro, Pro Max, and the new foldable.
What improvements will A20 bring over A19?
The leap to TSMC’s 2 nm lithography, increased energy efficiency, better graphics performance, and more advanced AI support.
Why does Apple release different versions of the same chip?
To enhance its catalog segmentation, leverage chips with partially disabled GPUs (chip binning), and offer a more stepped range of capabilities according to the model.
What impact will Apple’s early adoption of 2 nm have on the market?
It could give Apple a technological advantage of one or two years in power and efficiency, bolstering its position against Qualcomm and Samsung in the high-end segment.
via: wccftech