Apple has unveiled its A20 Pro chip with a new 2-nanometre architecture, a second Neural Engine and a redesigned chip package to improve cooling. Built to support more demanding on-device Apple Intelligence and Siri AI features, it also brings seven-core graphics and 50% more memory bandwidth.
The six-core CPU combines two new “super cores” with four efficiency cores, all integrated with neural accelerators for AI tasks that require quick responses. Apple says the super cores are up to 20% faster and claims they deliver desktop-class performance, outpacing those in every other smartphone. Smaller, more densely packed transistors enable changes across the chip.
The seven-core GPU delivers up to 40% more performance in one generation, according to Apple, with faster graphics rendering and improved AI image generation. It also gains internal bandwidth and architectural changes aimed at high-end games. Updated neural accelerators provide twice the speed for 8-bit floating-point calculations, supporting workloads such as third-party large language models running directly on the phone.
Adding a second Neural Engine brings the total to 32 cores and doubles its dedicated AI computing power, Apple says. The CPU, GPU and Neural Engines all benefit from the 50% increase in memory bandwidth, delivered through what Apple calls its widest memory interface in an iPhone.
To help cool the chip, Apple has placed memory beside the silicon die in a custom package inspired by its M-series processors. That removes memory from the chip’s thermal path and lets the silicon connect directly to the vapour chamber. Apple says the arrangement substantially improves heat management and is part of a broader new thermal design.
Apple Intelligence draws on calendars, relationships, routines and other personal details, processing requests locally whenever possible. More demanding tasks use Private Cloud Compute, which Apple says maintains those privacy protections and prevents anyone, including Apple, from accessing the personal data involved.
Apple contrasted this with companies that collect and store user information on their servers (a subtle jab at Google, OpenAI and likely Anthropic too), arguing that doing so takes control away from users.
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