Tag: Snapdragon 8 Elite 2

  • Xiaomi Launch on September 16: Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 & 6800mAh Battery

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Xiaomi 16 series is set to launch in China later this year, possibly in September, featuring the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 chipset.
    2. The Xiaomi 16 is rumored to have a 6,800mAh battery with 100W charging capabilities, surpassing previous models in battery performance.
    3. The device is expected to feature a 6.3-inch flat OLED display with ultra-slim bezels and will run on Android 16 with HyperOS 3.0 UI.
    4. Camera specifications include a powerful 50-megapixel triple camera setup with a periscope telephoto lens.
    5. Both the Xiaomi 16 and Xiaomi 16 Pro are expected to launch together, while the Xiaomi 16 Ultra is anticipated in early 2026.


    Xiaomi is set to reveal the Xiaomi 16 series of flagship smartphones in China later this year. Before the official announcement, tipster Smart Pikachu has provided some interesting insights regarding the rumored Xiaomi 16. While the leaker hasn’t specifically mentioned the official name, the details shared suggest that a launch is likely approaching, possibly in September. This device is anticipated to showcase innovative features, such as the first Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 chipset and a notable battery capacity.

    Expected Features and Specs

    According to the leak from Smart Pikachu, the Xiaomi 16 will reportedly be the first smartphone to utilize the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 chipset. Furthermore, it is believed that the device is being evaluated with a 6,800mAh battery and 100W charging capabilities. This information aligns with an earlier leak stating that the Xiaomi 16 will feature a 6.3-inch display. For reference, the Chinese version of the Xiaomi 15 is equipped with a 5,400mAh battery and supports 90W charging, making the Xiaomi 16’s specs more impressive compared to other devices in its segment. To give some perspective, the OnePlus 13T, also with a 6.3-inch display, has a 6,260mAh battery and 80W charging, while the upcoming Vivo S30 Pro Mini (in China) or the Vivo X200 FE (in India) is rumored to have a 6,500mAh battery with 90W charging.

    Display and Camera Details

    The same tipster has previously disclosed that the Xiaomi 16 will feature a 6.3-inch flat OLED display with ultra-slim bezels on all four sides. It is expected to operate on Android 16, layered with the forthcoming HyperOS 3.0 UI. Rumors also suggest that the Xiaomi 16 will come with a powerful 50-megapixel triple camera arrangement, which includes a periscope telephoto lens. Despite housing a substantial battery, the Xiaomi 16 is anticipated to maintain a sleek and lightweight design.

    Launch Timeline

    Moreover, earlier leaks indicate that both the Xiaomi 16 and Xiaomi 16 Pro will launch concurrently this year, while the Xiaomi 16 Ultrav is expected to be released later in the first half of 2026.

  • Samsung Foundry’s 2nm Yield Gains: Key Challenges Ahead

    Samsung Foundry’s 2nm Yield Gains: Key Challenges Ahead

    Key Takeaways

    1. Samsung Foundry is improving its 2 nm yields, now estimated at 40-50%, up from 30% in February.
    2. The Exynos 2600 is expected to power upcoming Galaxy S26 models, indicating positive growth for Samsung’s chipset lineup.
    3. Yield improvements at Samsung may involve performance trade-offs, leading to a gap between its chips and those produced by TSMC.
    4. Samsung’s previous advantage in 3 nm technology has diminished with the introduction of TSMC’s N2 node, which uses similar Nanosheet technology.
    5. Future improvements may come with the next generation, SF2P, which is expected to be marketed as Samsung’s ‘true’ 2 nm node.


    Unlike TSMC, which has already gone beyond 60% yields on its 2 nm class N2 node, Samsung Foundry is still trying to reach that important target. A new report from the South Korean news source Munhwa suggests that the young chipmaker is getting close, with yields now estimated to be in the 40-50% range. This is a significant improvement from the earlier reported 30% in February. While yields alone don’t mean much without knowing the chip’s die size, in this case, it is expected to be around the size of a smartphone SoC, approximately 150 mm².

    Positive Outlook for Exynos 2600

    This development is promising for the Exynos 2600, which is expected to power the Galaxy S26, Galaxy S26+, and possibly the Galaxy S26 Ultra next year. In addition, the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 for Galaxy is also rumored to be produced on the same node, but its launch is not anticipated until the second half of 2026, likely coinciding with the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Galaxy Z Flip 8.

    Trade-offs in Performance

    However, X leaker and semiconductor analyst Jukanlosreve points out that this yield improvement has come at a cost. Samsung apparently had to make performance compromises to produce workable chips. This indicates that SF2 will again lag behind TSMC’s N2 node in raw performance. Such a situation could create a notable performance gap between the standard Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 (TSMC N3P) and the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 designed for Galaxy.

    Challenges with 2 nm Technology

    To complicate things, Samsung once had an edge with its 3 nm node, which was GAAFET-based, but that advantage is gone with the 2 nm node because N2 employs Nanosheets, a technology that is quite similar. It might be that things improve with the next generation, SF2P, which Jukanlosreve claims will be marketed as their ‘true’ 2 nm node.

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  • Snapdragon 8 Elite 2: Key Features of Qualcomm’s New Chipset

    Snapdragon 8 Elite 2: Key Features of Qualcomm’s New Chipset

    Key Takeaways

    1. Qualcomm may reveal the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 in late September.
    2. The chipset will feature Oryon Gen 2 CPU cores built on TSMC’s N3P technology and an Adreno 840 GPU.
    3. It will include two high-performance and six standard CPU cores, adopting the Armv9 architecture.
    4. The Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 will have a 33% increase in L2 cache, totaling 16 MB, and a Neural Processing Unit (NPU) with up to 100 TOPS performance.
    5. Expected improvements in display brightness and potential use in devices like OnePlus 13, Xiaomi 15, and Galaxy S25 Ultra.


    Digital Chat Station has shared new details regarding the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2, hinting that Qualcomm might reveal it in late September. Previously, the leaker indicated that this chipset would significantly outperform the Snapdragon 8 Elite in both CPU and GPU benchmarks.

    Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 Specifications

    In a recent update on Weibo, Digital Chat Station confirmed that the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 will use Oryon Gen 2 CPU cores that are built on TSMC’s N3P technology. It features an Adreno 840 GPU along with two high-performance and six standard CPU cores. Furthermore, the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 seems to adopt the Armv9 architecture, supporting ARM’s Scalable Matrix Extension 1 (SME 1) and Scalable Vector Extension 2 (SVE2).

    Enhancements and Future Devices

    Additionally, Digital Chat Station mentions that Qualcomm is set to enhance these features with a 33% increase in L2 cache, bringing it to a total of 16 MB. The Neural Processing Unit (NPU) is expected to achieve a theoretical performance of up to 100 TOPS. The leaker also hints that the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 will improve display brightness through various hardware upgrades. While the exact details are not yet disclosed, it wouldn’t be surprising if devices like the OnePlus 13, Xiaomi 15, and Galaxy S25 Ultra (currently priced at $1,067.99 on Amazon) are marketed based on these advancements as we approach late 2025 and early 2026.

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  • Xiaomi 16 Rumored to Have Larger Battery Than OnePlus 13T

    Xiaomi 16 Rumored to Have Larger Battery Than OnePlus 13T

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xiaomi 16 and Xiaomi 16 Pro are expected to launch this autumn, but only in China.
    2. The standard version of the Xiaomi 16 may be delayed until MWC 2026 in March.
    3. The display size for the Xiaomi 16 is rumored to be around 6.3 inches, utilizing LIPO technology for thinner bezels.
    4. The Xiaomi 16 is expected to feature three 50 MP rear cameras and be powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 processor.
    5. The battery capacity of the Xiaomi 16 could be nearly 7,000 mAh, surpassing the OnePlus 13T’s 6,260 mAh battery.


    Rumors about Xiaomi’s upcoming compact flagship keep popping up online, even after the global launch of the Xiaomi 15. It’s reported that the Xiaomi 16 and Xiaomi 16 Pro are set to debut this autumn, but only in China. Meanwhile, the standard version might be delayed until the Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2026, which is scheduled for March 2 to March 5 in Barcelona.

    Display Size Changes

    Earlier predictions suggested that Xiaomi would move to a bigger display compared to the 6.36-inch screen of the Xiaomi 15 (currently priced at $1,199.99 on Amazon). Although this idea still holds some weight, fresh rumors indicate the new panel might be closer to 6.3 inches. No matter the exact dimensions, Xiaomi is expected to implement Low-Injection Pressure Overmolding (LIPO) technology to slim down the bezel from one generation to the next.

    Camera and Performance Enhancements

    In addition, the Xiaomi 16 is rumored to feature a set of three 50 MP rear cameras, powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 processor. Widsom Pikachu emphasizes that this compact flagship will offer the highest battery capacity among similar models with a display around 6.3 inches. This means it would exceed the OnePlus 13T’s battery, which is 6,260 mAh. There are whispers that the Xiaomi 16 might reach nearly 7,000 mAh in capacity, but no solid proof has come to light to back up this claim just yet.

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  • Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 for Galaxy to Be Made on Samsung’s 2nm Node

    Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 for Galaxy to Be Made on Samsung’s 2nm Node

    Key Takeaways

    1. Samsung Foundry is expected to regain Qualcomm as a client, particularly for the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 production.
    2. The Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 will utilize Samsung’s SF2 technology and is likely intended for devices launching in late 2026, such as the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Galaxy Z Flip 8.
    3. The Galaxy S26 Ultra faces uncertainty as it may not have a Snapdragon chip ready in time, complicating its production options.
    4. Qualcomm risks facing another Chipgate scandal, as Samsung Foundry’s SF2 technology has advantages but lags behind TSMC in power efficiency and performance.
    5. Designing the same chip for different manufacturing nodes presents significant challenges for Qualcomm and Samsung.


    An earlier report from media outlets in South Korea suggests that Samsung Foundry is on the verge of winning Qualcomm back as a client. Although the two companies have traditionally collaborated on mid-range chips, Qualcomm’s top-tier products have been produced by TSMC since the Snapdragon 888 and Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 did not meet expectations. However, SEDaily indicates that this situation could change in the coming year.

    Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 Production

    Rumor has it that Samsung Foundry will produce the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 for Galaxy using its SF2 technology. This would align it with the Exynos 2600, which is also expected to launch in 2026. However, this chip won’t be used in the Galaxy S26 lineup but will be designated for other devices expected to debut in the latter half of 2026. This likely points to the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Galaxy Z Flip 8. If this turns out to be true, Samsung’s 2026 product range might look like this:

    Uncertainties Around Galaxy S26 Ultra

    The Galaxy S26 Ultra is currently in a state of uncertainty because, based on the Galaxy S24 lineup, the Ultra version used Qualcomm while the other models utilized Exynos. This time, it won’t be as simple since the Snapdragon chip won’t be ready in time. Another option could be for Samsung to implement a TSMC N3P-based Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 for the Galaxy S26 Ultra, which would unnecessarily complicate the situation.

    The Chipgate Risk

    Moreover, Qualcomm may face the possibility of experiencing the Chipgate scandal again. On paper, SF2 has a slight advantage over TSMC N3P thanks to its GAAFET architecture compared to FinFET. Nevertheless, Samsung Foundry has lagged behind TSMC in terms of power efficiency and overall performance in recent generations. Furthermore, designing essentially the same chip for two completely different nodes is an enormous challenge by itself.

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  • Xiaomi 16 Pro to Feature OmniVision OV50Q Sensor Upgrades

    Xiaomi 16 Pro to Feature OmniVision OV50Q Sensor Upgrades

    Key Takeaways

    1. Upcoming flagship smartphones from Android manufacturers are expected to launch in four to five months.
    2. The Xiaomi 16 Pro will feature a new telephoto camera sensor and the OmniVision OV50Q for improved HDR imaging.
    3. Several Android brands are likely to adopt the OV50Q camera sensor in their flagship models this year.
    4. The Honor Magic8 Pro is anticipated to launch in autumn with Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 chipset.
    5. Samsung’s Galaxy S25 lineup will not launch until at least January 2026, falling behind competitors.


    The upcoming flagship smartphones are probably still four or five months away from being launched. However, insiders like Digital Chat Station and Kartikey Singh are still sharing interesting details about the new hardware that Android manufacturers are planning to introduce later this year.

    New Camera Upgrades

    Earlier this month, it was hinted that the Xiaomi 16 Pro would be released this fall with a better telephoto camera sensor. New information now suggests that Xiaomi might also use the OmniVision OV50Q to enhance the main camera of the device. Digital Chat Station mentions that the OV50Q comes with a 1/1.3-inch optical format and supports lateral overflow integration capacitor (LOFIC) technology, which is designed to enhance HDR imaging.

    Competition Among Android Brands

    According to @RODENT950, several Android manufacturers are expected to include the OV50Q in their flagship smartphones this year. The Magic8 Pro from Honor might also be a strong contender, with its release likely set for autumn as well. Currently, both Honor and Xiaomi are anticipated to launch Snapdragon 8 Elite 2-powered devices ahead of Samsung by about three to four months. In contrast, Samsung appears to be sticking with the Galaxy S25 Ultra (currently priced at $1,029 – refurbished on Amazon) and the rest of the Galaxy S25 lineup until at least the end of January 2026.

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  • Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 Phones Expected to Launch Early October

    Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 Phones Expected to Launch Early October

    Key Takeaways

    1. Qualcomm is not participating in mid-cycle refreshes, allowing focus on next-generation products.
    2. The Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 is expected to launch in late September, with smartphone releases starting in October.
    3. Chinese manufacturers like Xiaomi and OnePlus are likely to be the first to launch devices with the new chipset.
    4. The Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 may see up to a 30% increase in GPU performance and a 28% rise in AnTuTu scores compared to its predecessor.
    5. Enhancements include support for SVE and SME instruction sets, improving machine learning capabilities.


    Unlike MediaTek, who just recently revealed the Dimensity 9400+, Qualcomm has chosen not to join the mid-cycle refresh competition. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing, as it gives the company more room to concentrate on its next-generation products. Well-known leaker Digital Chat Station mentions that the Snapdragon 8 Elite successor, which many think will be called the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2, is expected to launch sooner than previously thought.

    Launch Timeline

    Qualcomm is anticipated to unveil the SoC around late September, with smartphone releases set to begin in October. In contrast, last year saw the Snapdragon 8 Elite being presented in late October, with smartphones hitting the market shortly thereafter. Chinese manufacturers like Xiaomi are likely to lead the way, with devices such as the Xiaomi 16 and possibly the OnePlus 14 being among the first to launch.

    Performance Boosts

    Regarding the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 itself, it is rumored to have up to a 30% increase in GPU performance. Digital Chat Station indicates there could be a 28% rise in AnTuTu scores when compared to the Snapdragon 8 Elite. This improvement is partly attributed to the advancement to TSMC’s N3P node. Other significant enhancements include support for SVE and SME instruction sets, which will improve machine learning capabilities.

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  • Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 Launching in September: Specs & Expected Phones

    Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 Launching in September: Specs & Expected Phones

    Key Takeaways

    1. Qualcomm plans to unveil the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 by the end of September, with smartphones debuting in October.
    2. The Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 is expected to have a CPU base frequency of 4.4GHz and a second-generation self-designed CPU architecture.
    3. The GPU’s dedicated cache will increase from 12MB to 16MB, potentially boosting overall performance by 30%.
    4. The chip is manufactured using TSMC’s third-generation 3nm process, improving performance by 4% and reducing power usage by 9%.
    5. Anticipated devices featuring the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 include Xiaomi 16, 16 Pro, Redmi K90 Pro, Realme GT 8 Pro, and OnePlus 14.


    A recent leak from tipster Digital Chat Station has shed light on the expected release period for Qualcomm’s next high-end chip, tentatively called the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2. This new chip will take over from the original Snapdragon 8 Elite, which was officially revealed in October of last year. Keep reading to find out the speculated specifications, launch dates, and the devices anticipated to include the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2.

    Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 Launch Timeline (Speculated)

    The leaked information from DCS suggests that Qualcomm plans to unveil the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 by the end of September this year. Furthermore, it’s indicated that the first smartphones powered by this new chip will debut in October. This strategy appears to be Qualcomm’s attempt to directly compete with Apple’s forthcoming iPhone 17 series, which is rumored to arrive in September. Reports suggest that the Xiaomi 16 and 16 Pro will likely be the initial models to adopt the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2.

    Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 Specifications (Speculated)

    The Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 chipset is rumored to offer substantial performance improvements over its predecessor. It is said that the CPU will operate at a base frequency of 4.4GHz, which is a slight increase from the previous model’s 4.32GHz. Moreover, this new chip incorporates a second-generation self-designed CPU architecture, with the GPU’s dedicated cache expanding from 12MB to 16MB, which could lead to a 30% increase in overall performance.

    When it comes to manufacturing, the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 is built using TSMC’s third-generation 3nm process. This process is expected to boost performance by 4% while lowering power usage by 9% compared to the last generation, all without changing clock speeds. The chip also includes the new SME instruction set, part of the Arm64 architecture, which aims to improve multimedia and graphical processing, making it more effective for these tasks.

    Upcoming Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 Devices

    In addition to the Xiaomi 16 and 16 Pro, other devices that are likely to feature the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 include the Redmi K90 Pro, Realme GT 8 Pro, OnePlus 14, iQOO 14, Xiaomi 16 Ultra, Vivo X300 Ultra, and Oppo Find X9 Ultra. The Ultra versions mentioned here are expected to be released in the first half of 2026.


  • Realme GT 8 Pro: Snapdragon 8 Elite 2, 200MP Camera, Big Battery

    Realme GT 8 Pro: Snapdragon 8 Elite 2, 200MP Camera, Big Battery

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Realme GT 8 Pro will likely feature the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 processor, offering a 26% performance boost over the Snapdragon 8 Elite.
    2. The phone may include a 200MP periscope lens, upgrading from the GT 7 Pro’s 50MP camera setup.
    3. It is expected to have a flat 2K OLED display and an ultrasonic fingerprint scanner for enhanced user experience.
    4. The GT 8 Pro will reportedly have a larger 7,000mAh battery and support 100W fast charging compared to the GT 7 Pro’s 6,500mAh battery.
    5. The launch of the GT 8 Pro is anticipated in the final quarter of this year, but all details are based on leaks and should be taken with caution.


    The Realme GT series is known for its focus on high-performance smartphones. Last November, the company introduced the GT 7 Pro, which was one of the first devices to use the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset. Recently, a new leak has surfaced, providing insights into the upcoming Realme GT 8 Pro.

    Performance Upgrades

    According to the latest information from Digital Chat Station, the Realme GT 8 Pro is set to feature a number of hardware enhancements over its predecessor, the GT 7 Pro. The standout feature of this new phone will likely be the next-generation Snapdragon flagship processor, rumored to be called the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2. A previous leak indicated that this new chipset could offer around a 26% increase in AnTuTu scores when compared to the Snapdragon 8 Elite.

    Camera and Display Features

    Moreover, the GT 8 Pro may come equipped with a 200MP periscope lens. In contrast, the GT 7 Pro had a triple rear camera array that included a 50MP main lens, a 50MP telephoto lens, and a 50MP ultrawide lens.

    Reports also suggest that the GT 8 Pro will sport a flat display boasting a 2K resolution. Like its predecessor, it is anticipated to feature an OLED screen. The upcoming device could also incorporate an ultrasonic fingerprint scanner and is expected to have a metal frame for added durability.

    Battery and Charging Capabilities

    Finally, the leak hints that the GT 8 Pro will be powered by a substantial battery, with a capacity of at least 7,000mAh. Additionally, it is expected to support rapid 100W charging. For reference, the GT 7 Pro had a battery capacity of 6,500mAh.

    As of now, all of this information is based on leaks and should be viewed with caution. Similar to the GT 7 Pro, the GT 8 Pro is anticipated to launch in the final quarter of this year.

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  • 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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