Key Takeaways
1. Samsung will implement a dual-chip strategy for the Galaxy S26 series, using Exynos 2600 for S26 and S26+ and Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 for S26 Ultra globally.
2. The Exynos 2600 is built on Samsung’s 2nm SF2 node, while the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 is manufactured on TSMC’s 3nm N3P node.
3. The Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 for Galaxy will be produced using Samsung’s 2nm process, marking a return to collaboration with Qualcomm.
4. This strategy mirrors the previous S24 series, where different chips were used for various models based on the region.
5. Performance comparisons suggest that while the Exynos 2600 and Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 have potential due to their manufacturing processes, TSMC’s chips historically outperform Samsung’s.
Samsung is planning to use a similar chip strategy for its Galaxy S26 series, which is expected to launch in early 2026. The company will use the Exynos 2600 for the global variants of the S26 and S26+, while the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 will be utilized in the S26 Ultra across the globe, including all models sold in the US, Japan, South Korea, and China. The eighth generation of foldables will also feature the 8 Elite 2, but there is a twist to this setup.
Chip Strategy Insights
Samsung’s approach for the Galaxy S26 series brings back the dual-chip strategy after the previous Snapdragon-only S25 series, which faced yield challenges with the Exynos 2500. A recent report from South Korea mentions that the Exynos 2600, crafted on Samsung’s 2nm SF2 node with GAA FET architecture, will drive the S26 and S26+ (or S26 Edge) in areas like Europe and Asia. Meanwhile, the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2, built on TSMC’s 3nm N3P node, will support the S26 Ultra worldwide and all models in key markets. This setup is similar to what was seen with the S24, where the S24 Ultra was powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 globally, while the S24 and S24+ had the Exynos 2400 in most regions.
Manufacturing Details
Interestingly, the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 “For Galaxy” will be produced using Samsung’s 2nm manufacturing process, unlike TSMC’s. Qualcomm previously collaborated with Samsung Foundry for the Snapdragon 888 and 8 Gen 1, but then shifted back to TSMC, mainly due to performance and efficiency needs, despite the higher costs. It raises the question: will the 8th generation foldables experience similar challenges as those earlier flagships? Only time will reveal this.
Performance Comparison
The theoretical advantage of the Exynos 2600 and the 8 Elite 2 For Galaxy lies in the 2nm process, but historically, TSMC’s N3P has shown better performance than Samsung’s nodes. Qualcomm’s strategy of dual-sourcing is mainly focused on reducing costs since TSMC’s 3nm wafers were reportedly around $18,000 each last year.
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