Consumers could face higher prices for smartphones, laptops, wearables and other electronics if TSMC raises chip manufacturing fees by as much as 10 percent in 2027. The reported move would add pressure to a supply chain already dealing with more expensive memory components.
The impact could be broad because TSMC manufactures chips for major technology companies including Apple, Nvidia, Qualcomm, Broadcom, MediaTek and Intel. Higher wafer costs may leave these customers to either absorb the increase or pass part of it on through retail pricing.
Manufacturing Nodes in the Report
Nikkei Asia, as cited by Gadgets360, reported that the proposed adjustment may cover both advanced chip production and more mature manufacturing nodes. The report identified 28nm, 16nm, 12nm and 6nm processes as potentially affected.
| Manufacturing Node | Reported Status | Potential Increase |
|---|---|---|
| 28nm | Potentially affected | Up to 10 percent |
| 16nm | Potentially affected | Up to 10 percent |
| 12nm | Potentially affected | Up to 10 percent |
| 6nm | Potentially affected | Up to 10 percent |
The changes for these nodes could take effect in 2027, according to the report. Production using the 6nm process could also become up to 10 percent more expensive during that period.
Costs Behind the Proposed Adjustment
The reported fee increase is linked to rising costs for raw materials, production equipment and new overseas factories. TSMC has reportedly discussed the planned adjustment with several unnamed customers.
Those negotiations were said to have begun in June and concluded in July. A TSMC spokesperson said the company’s pricing policy was strategic rather than an attempt to gain a short-term advantage.
The issue arrives as demand for AI chips and data-centre hardware continues to expand worldwide. High-value semiconductor manufacturing capacity has become increasingly important for companies building new products and infrastructure.
Existing Pressure on Device Prices
Memory costs have already placed pressure on handset pricing in several markets, including India. A further increase in chip manufacturing costs could add another challenge for device makers planning future product generations.
Counterpoint Research said India’s smartphone shipments fell 10 percent year on year in the April–June quarter. It attributed the weakest June-quarter performance in six years to higher memory prices and softer consumer demand.
Several smartphone brands in India have raised device prices in recent months to offset rising chip costs. If TSMC proceeds with the reported plan, technology companies may need to reassess product and pricing strategies for 2027.