TSMC has reportedly started trial manufacturing of Apple's next generation A6 chips shifting from its traditional chip supplier, Samsung Electronics. The report was released today by Reuters citing an un-named source.

"TSMC has got all the authorization and details ready. Whether Apple puts in a formal order will depend on the yield rate," said the source, who was not authorized to speak to the media.

Trial manufacturing means that TSMC would get actual orders for the chips soon, depending on its yield rate, or the amount of chips per batch that come out with no defects. If the rumours are true, the move would be a blow for Samsung, which has been the sole supplier of the A5 chips used in the iPad 2, had made the A4 processor for the original iPad as well as the processor for the iPhone. However, Apple has hinted it is keen to diversify its supply chain from the Korean company. Samsung has emerged as Apple's toughest competitor in the smartphone and tablet market and is involved in an acrimonious legal battle with Apple over patents.

The A6 is rumored to be an ARM-based quad-core processor implemented in a 28-nm manufacturing process.

TSMC, Apple and Samsung have not commented on the report.