Many problems could delay iPhone production, but earthquakes won’t be one of them, at least in Taiwan. Following the seismic events that occurred in Taiwan early on Wednesday, it was reported that many production facilities of iPhone chip maker TSMC were damaged.

Confirmed just two days later Operations have largely returned to normal in the earthquake-resistant buildings where they operate.According to a TrendForce post.

TSMC recovers chip production speed after Taiwan earthquake

Due to the sensitivity of the production of advanced chips, it was feared that these components could cause serious damage to the production equipment, which could cause a disruption in the supply chain of Apple products expected in 2024. However, it seems that; its impact was limited.

TrendForce says TSMC’s facilities sustained some damage, but the advanced construction methods used meant it was limited. given There are world-class seismic mitigation measures It is capable of reducing seismic effects by 1 to 2 times.

…The capacity utilization rates of mature process plants (averaging between 50% and 80%) meant that losses were quickly made up once operations resumed, resulting in only minor impacts to capacity.

These measures were taken after the 1999 earthquake, and after that TSMC implemented a new development in disaster preparedness. They then implemented seismic management measures to reduce risks, in addition to comprehensive inspections and the installation of technologies that help reduce vibrations in the equipment.

Pre-production of 2nm chips for iPhone 17 Pro needs to be examined

Apple’s current A and M series chips are manufactured by TSMC. This is happening precisely within the framework of an increase in production to prepare for upcoming product launches, including the new iPad Pro and iPad Air.

Although they can continue their normal operations for now, these events may delay the iPhone 17. The biggest damage appears to be in the facility known as Fab 12, which pre-produces the 2nm chips expected to be used in iPhone models. iPhone 17 Pro.

Only Fab 12 suffered some water damage to equipment due to broken pipes, primarily affecting the 2nm process, which has not yet gone into mass production. This is expected to have a short-term impact on operations, which may require the purchase of new equipment and therefore slightly increase capital expenditures.