In layout design, a unique multi-grid system abstracts complex design rules of the latest 7nm and 5nm processes, while allowing engineers to increase their use of placement and routing ...

This does mean that on paper the 5nm Tensor G2 isn’t as efficient as last year’s 4nm-based Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 or even Samsung’s own Exynos 2200.

However, despite those setbacks, China and SMIC have soldiered on, but it comes at a cost. According to the report, SMIC plans to complete its 5nm process by 2025, a step up from the 7nm process.