Tag: Samsung Foundry

  • Samsung Foundry Nears Deal to Acquire Qualcomm as Customer

    Samsung Foundry Nears Deal to Acquire Qualcomm as Customer

    Key Takeaways

    1. Qualcomm and Samsung Foundry’s partnership has faced challenges since the Snapdragon 888 and Snapdragon 8 Gen 1, with Samsung focusing on entry-level and mid-range chips.

    2. A deal between Qualcomm and Samsung Foundry is expected soon, with chip samples recently delivered; production will likely use advanced 3 nm class nodes.

    3. The Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 for Galaxy is rumored to be produced on Samsung’s 2 nm node, while the standard version will use TSMC’s N3P node.

    4. The Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 is anticipated to power upcoming Galaxy S26 and Galaxy Z Fold 8 devices, with improved yield rates at Samsung Foundry potentially facilitating production.

    5. Sourcing chips from both TSMC and Samsung may lead to compatibility issues, and while Samsung’s technology has advantages, it may still struggle to compete with TSMC.

    Qualcomm and Samsung Foundry have had a rocky partnership since the Snapdragon 888 and Snapdragon 8 Gen 1. Following those events, Samsung Foundry has mostly focused on producing entry-level and mid-range chips. However, a recent report from the South Korean news site FNNews indicates that this situation might change shortly.

    New Developments on the Horizon

    The report mentions that a deal with Qualcomm is “imminent,” as Samsung Foundry has recently delivered samples to the U.S. chip manufacturer. Although the specifics are not clearly stated, it is expected that the chips will be produced using one of Samsung’s 3 nm class nodes, probably SF3P or SF2. Since this is an advanced technology node, it’s improbable that it would be utilized for mid-range products.

    Rumors About Snapdragon 8 Elite 2

    This aligns with previous rumors suggesting that the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 for Galaxy (previously referred to as the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 for Galaxy) will be produced on Samsung’s 2 nm node. Meanwhile, the standard version of the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 is anticipated to utilize TSMC’s N3P node.

    If everything goes as planned, the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 for Galaxy is expected to power the Galaxy S26 and Galaxy Z Fold 8 series in the upcoming year. This time around, the chip may actually be ready before the devices are available for purchase, as another report claims Samsung Foundry’s 2 nm yield has improved to approximately 40% (up from 20%). While this yield isn’t sufficient for mass production, it provides Samsung ample opportunity to surpass the 60% threshold needed for production.

    Potential Issues Ahead

    That being said, sourcing chips from both TSMC and Samsung Foundry could create some issues for end users and might lead to a situation similar to Chipgate. On paper, Samsung’s node holds an advantage over TSMC’s N3P due to its GAA (gate all around) design, unlike TSMC’s FinFET. However, this advantage alone may not be enough to surpass TSMC’s capabilities.

    FNNews’s report highlights these developments, providing insight into the ongoing dynamics between Qualcomm and Samsung Foundry.

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  • Samsung Foundry May Scrap 1.4 nm Node Plans

    Samsung Foundry May Scrap 1.4 nm Node Plans

    Key Takeaways

    1. Samsung Foundry is facing issues with low yields from its SF3 node, delaying the launch of the Exynos 2500.
    2. The upcoming 1.4 nm node (SF1.4) may be abandoned, with potential delays instead of a complete scrapping.
    3. Samsung is currently focused on the Exynos 2600 and AI chips while receiving new orders for its 4 nm nodes.
    4. Samsung Foundry’s market share is only 8.2%, significantly lower than TSMC’s 67.1%, raising concerns about its future.
    5. Possible restructuring within Samsung Foundry may include integrating the Exynos division into Samsung MX for better oversight.

    Samsung Foundry’s troubles could be getting even worse. After disappointing yields from its SF3 node, which caused the Exynos 2500 launch to be delayed, the company had to scale back some of its older 5 nm and 7 nm processes due to low interest. Now, reliable insider @Jukanlosreve has suggested that Samsung’s upcoming 1.4 nm node (SF1.4) might be completely abandoned.

    Potential Changes to SF1.4

    A prior roadmap from Samsung Foundry indicated that SF1.4 was set to begin high volume manufacturing (HVM) by 2027. This node was supposed to run alongside SF2A, which is geared toward automotive applications, and SF2Z, marking the first node featuring a Backside Power Delivery Network (BSPDN). However, there is a chance that SF1.4 could be delayed further instead of being entirely scrapped.

    Current Developments

    For the moment, Samsung Foundry is still working on the Exynos 2600 utilizing SF2, along with some artificial intelligence chips for PFN. Additionally, some of its 4 nm nodes have received new orders from a few Chinese fabless companies affected by trade restrictions. However, key players continue to turn away from Samsung, opting for TSMC or even Intel instead.

    Market Share Concerns

    According to the Korea Economic Daily, Samsung Foundry might undergo significant changes due to its low market share of just 8.2%, which pales in comparison to TSMC’s dominating 67.1%. This could lead to substantial restructuring within the organization. Business Post reports that the Exynos division may be integrated into Samsung MX, which would provide greater oversight over upcoming smartphone SoC designs.

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  • Samsung Galaxy S26: Exynos 2600 Success Is Internal Priority

    Samsung Galaxy S26: Exynos 2600 Success Is Internal Priority

    Key Takeaways

    1. Samsung is taking precautions in developing the Exynos 2600 chipset to avoid issues faced with the Exynos 2500.
    2. The Exynos 2600 will be built using Samsung Foundry’s 2 nm (SF2) nodes, which currently have low yield estimates of 20%-30%.
    3. Samsung’s yield target for the SF2 nodes is 70%, significantly higher than current levels.
    4. A dedicated task force has been formed by Samsung to improve yield levels for the Exynos 2600.
    5. Successful rollout of the Exynos 2600 could help Samsung regain clients that moved to TSMC, enhancing profit margins for the Galaxy S26 series.

    New insights from South Korean news outlets have shed light on the Exynos 2600 chipset’s development. It appears that Samsung is taking extra precautions to ensure that its upcoming flagship mobile chipset avoids the pitfalls experienced with the Exynos 2500. To summarize, Samsung faced significant challenges with the yield from its 3 nm nodes at Samsung Foundry, which led to the decision to use the Snapdragon 8 Elite for the Galaxy S25 and Galaxy S25 Plus, currently priced at $899.99 on Amazon, across the globe.

    Details on the Exynos 2600

    On the other hand, the Exynos 2600 is reportedly being built using Samsung Foundry’s 2 nm (SF2) nodes. Recent estimates suggest that SF2 yields are currently between 20% and 30%, which is considerably below the 70% yield target necessary to begin mass production. For context, TSMC has been able to achieve around 60% yields with its own 2 nm class nodes.

    Samsung’s Strategic Moves

    It is said that Samsung has formed a dedicated task force to ensure that the SF2 nodes achieve the necessary yield levels. As reported by FN News, utilizing SF2 nodes for the Exynos 2600 is expected to enhance profit margins for the Galaxy S26 series, especially when compared to the Qualcomm-only Galaxy S25 series. Moreover, the successful rollout of the Exynos 2600 in Samsung’s forthcoming flagship devices is seen as a potential strategy to win back clients who have shifted to TSMC, including big names like Qualcomm and Nvidia in recent times.

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  • Samsung Foundry Resumes 4nm Production Lines Amid New Demand

    Samsung Foundry Resumes 4nm Production Lines Amid New Demand

    Key Takeaways

    1. Samsung Foundry halted operations at its 4 nm, 5 nm, and 7 nm fabs due to low demand, focusing on 3 nm products instead.
    2. Full production at the 4 nm line is expected to resume in June, primarily serving Samsung LSI and cryptocurrency mining ASIC manufacturers.
    3. U.S. sanctions against China may force Samsung to lose Chinese clients, impacting its business.
    4. Some Chinese companies are switching from TSMC to local manufacturers like SMIC, potentially affecting Samsung Foundry’s customer base.
    5. Revenue from trailing-edge nodes is vital for funding future R&D; without it, Samsung may struggle to compete with TSMC and Intel, leading to possible business divestitures.

    Last year, Samsung Foundry had to halt operations at its 4 nm, 5 nm, and 7 nm fabs due to a lack of demand. The company decided to concentrate on its newer 3 nm (and more advanced) products. However, it’s still facing significant challenges. Currently, there is new optimism for the struggling business.

    Production Resumption

    According to a report from Chosun (H/T @Jukanlosreve on X), the 4 nm line is set to restart full production in June. The orders are expected to come from Samsung LSI, most likely for mid-range Exynos chips and HBM4 logic dies. Additionally, cryptocurrency mining ASIC manufacturers from China are also among the customers. It’s noteworthy that one of Samsung’s initial 3 nm customers was also from that sector.

    Potential Challenges Ahead

    However, this situation may soon be at risk. The U.S. sanctions against China could compel Samsung to eliminate these clients. Some Chinese fabless companies are already shifting from TSMC to local options like SMIC, and it’s feasible that some have now turned to Samsung Foundry. Nevertheless, it’s just a matter of time before Samsung Foundry encounters such a departure.

    Future Implications

    This will add more difficulties for the chipmaker, as trailing-edge nodes are crucial for generating revenue that supports future R&D efforts. Without this financial boost, Samsung’s already struggling advanced nodes could lag even further behind TSMC and Intel, potentially leading Samsung to consider selling off parts of its business.

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  • Samsung Foundry May Spin Off into New Company

    Samsung Foundry May Spin Off into New Company

    Samsung Foundry Faces Challenges

    Samsung Foundry is currently facing difficulties, as shown by a recent report indicating that the company plans to shut down part of its 7 nm, 5 nm, and 4 nm production lines due to low demand. This decision has led to a significant loss of 1 trillion KRW. Although the situation could potentially improve with the introduction of newer nodes, such as 3 nm and beyond, some within Samsung believe it may be wiser to completely separate the foundry business.

    Task Force Formation for Separation

    According to a report from South Korean news outlet Topdaily (H/T @Jukanlosreve on X), Samsung has reportedly established a ‘task force’ aimed at detaching Samsung Foundry from Samsung Electronics. This project is expected to be resource-heavy and could take anywhere from 3 to 5 years to complete. Despite this, Lee Jae-Yong, the leader of Samsung Electronics, is against the plan. There appears to be tension within Samsung regarding this matter, suggesting that it may take some time before any definitive decisions are made.

    The Potential for Increased Autonomy

    On paper, spinning off Samsung Foundry from Samsung Electronics could grant the foundry more independence. However, the company still needs to tackle fundamental issues with its production processes. While TSMC’s N3 family of nodes has attracted major clients like Qualcomm, Apple, MediaTek, and even Intel, Samsung’s equivalent nodes have struggled to find customers, even though they utilize the advanced GAAFET technology.

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  • AMD considers Samsung’s 4nm process for manufacturing Zen 5c chips

    AMD considers Samsung’s 4nm process for manufacturing Zen 5c chips

    Samsung Foundry, the semiconductor chip manufacturing arm of Samsung Electronics, is making a comeback in the chip foundry market. After losing several key clients, including Apple, Nvidia, and Qualcomm, to rival TSMC, Samsung is now poised to reclaim some of its lost ground.

    Samsung's 4nm Chip Fabrication Technology

    The turnaround is being attributed to Samsung's significant improvements in its 4nm chip fabrication technology. Reportedly, the company has managed to match TSMC's yield and performance for 4nm chips.

    AMD Chooses Samsung Foundry for Zen 5c Chips

    This progress has caught the attention of AMD, which has reportedly decided to use Samsung Foundry's 4nm process for its next-generation Zen 5c processors. The lower-end models in the Zen 5c lineup are expected to be made using Samsung's 4nm process, while the higher-end models will utilize TSMC's 3nm process.

    Potential for Future Collaboration

    The successful production of AMD Zen 5c chips by Samsung could potentially open the door for AMD to consider Samsung Foundry's new 3nm GAA process in future endeavors. Kim Yang-paeng, a researcher at the Korea Institute for Industrial Economics and Trade, believes that "if Samsung successfully secures an order for AMD's 4-nano chips this time, it will pave the way for transactions in the 'big chip' field for servers, where Samsung has traditionally been less dominant. In the future, cutting-edge processes like 3-nano could become a reality for Samsung, further expanding its influence within the industry."

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