The growing demand for AI GPUs and ASICs is creating significant pressure on the silicon supply chain, resulting in a shortage of a critical material used for smartphone system-on-chips. T-glass, a high-silica fiberglass used in chip substrates for its thermal stability and reliability, is in limited supply. According to a recent Goldman Sachs report, most T-glass is being directed toward Ajinomoto Build-up Film substrates, which are widely used in AI processors for their ability to support dense, high-performance circuitry.
This redirection of supply is leaving little T-glass available for Bismaleimide Triazine substrates, a material commonly used in smartphone chips. Goldman Sachs warns that T-glass for these substrates could face a double-digit percentage shortage in the coming months and quarters. The situation raises concerns for the smartphone industry as companies like Apple plan to ship hundreds of millions of devices in 2026, including new models and a foldable iPhone.
This redirection of supply is leaving little T-glass available for Bismaleimide Triazine substrates, a material commonly used in smartphone chips. Goldman Sachs warns that T-glass for these substrates could face a double-digit percentage shortage in the coming months and quarters. The situation raises concerns for the smartphone industry as companies like Apple plan to ship hundreds of millions of devices in 2026, including new models and a foldable iPhone.
