Samsung Electronics is considering outsourcing the backend design work for the I/O die of Google’s 10th-generation 2nm TPU, known as “Icefish,” according to a post on X by Citrini analyst jukan.
The analyst said Samsung has already asked design solution partners about their requirements. The TPU is used to run Google’s AI models, including Gemini. Google is also reportedly designing the chip with MediaTek, with mass production planned as early as 2028.
Manufacturing split for the Icefish TPU
The TPU is described as having two components: a compute processor and an I/O die. The compute processor is expected to be manufactured by Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC) on a 1.4nm process. The I/O die is expected to be manufactured by Samsung Electronics on a 2nm process.
Potential outsourcing partners and Samsung’s 2nm customer base
The post added that Samsung has recently secured Anthropic and DeepX as 2nm customers in addition to Google and Tesla.
ADTechnology, Gaonchips, and Alphachips were mentioned as potential outsourcing contractors.
- ADTechnology is focused on its 2nm CPU project “ADP620” and is targeting annual revenue of more than 1 trillion won between 2028 and 2029.
- Gaonchips is preparing to participate in South Korea’s “K-On-Device AI” project, which is valued at about 800 billion won under the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy.
- Alphachips reportedly sees the Google TPU project as a growth driver and is taking a more active role.