7 nm, China’s small step for a phone, 7 years leap into the future.
The importance of Huawei Mate 60Pro for China
In 2020, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) imposed a ban on Huawei and ZTE Corp, citing national security concerns. This restriction has prevented Huawei from accessing cutting-edge technologies, including advanced processors, screen, camera, and various tech services. Notably, popular platforms such as Google and YouTube, along with other software, are prohibited for use in Huawei devices. However, the most significant impact stems from the limitations on CPU technology.
The size of a CPU is a critical factor in determining its capabilities. For instance, the Apple iPhone 15 Pro boasts a 3nm CPU technology, enabling it to run high-performance PC-ported games like Resident Evil and others. The manufacturing process of CPUs involves Extreme Ultraviolet Lithography (EUV), a sophisticated technology developed over decades and exclusively owned by ASML. The precision of CPU structures is measured in nanometers (nm), with a 1 nm gap between components — half the width of a DNA helix.
So, what sets the Huawei Mate 60Pro apart? Let’s delve into the bigger picture. The ban on ASML exporting chips to China has hindered Huawei’s ability to match the current standards of phone capabilities. Data suggests that Huawei lags behind by approximately 7–8 years in terms of phone capabilities, using the iPhone 15 Pro with its 3nm technology as a benchmark. In theory, considering an 8–10 year delay, Huawei and China should be utilizing 14nm chip technology. It is important to note that this technology not only circles around phones, but also science, engineering, military, and other fields. However, the Huawei Mate 60Pro defies expectations by introducing a 7nm chip technology, narrowing the technological advancement gap from 8–10 years to just 4–5 years.
The remarkable feat achieved by China in developing this technology in a mere three years demonstrates its ability to overcome challenges.
The attempt to restrict China’s access to advanced chips appears to have backfired,
as they have independently advanced their technology by around four years. This raises questions about China’s future capabilities and what technological advancements can be expected in the next five years. The unexpected success of the Huawei Mate 60Pro suggests that China is not only resilient but also capable of making strides in technological innovation despite external restrictions.
