Samsung Electronics Co. has completed development of its Exynos 2600 processor and plans to begin mass production by month’s end, setting up a potential return to flagship smartphones after years of relying exclusively on Qualcomm Inc. chips.
The 2-nanometer processor represents Samsung’s first attempt to challenge Qualcomm’s grip on premium mobile chips since the Galaxy S24 series launched two years ago. Samsung has completed the Exynos 2600 development and will start mass producing it this month, according to reports from South Korean media.
The chip’s debut in the Galaxy S26 series could deliver significant cost savings for Samsung’s mobile division, which spent 7.79 trillion won ($5.6 billion) on mobile processor materials in the first half of this year—a 29% increase from the previous year, largely due to Qualcomm procurement costs.
However, Samsung faces substantial hurdles. Samsung Foundry needs yield to hit 70% on 2nm node to finalize Galaxy S26 AP specs, while current production yields hover around 30-40%—well below Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co.’s estimated 60% for comparable technology.
Recent benchmarks have shown major improvements over the Exynos 2500, with the new processor incorporating thermal management technology to address historical overheating issues that plagued previous generations.
The Exynos 2600’s commercial viability remains uncertain as Samsung’s foundry division struggles with manufacturing consistency that has driven major customers to competitors.
