Samsung to Create Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 Solely for Galaxy S26
These speculations indicate that Qualcomm might enlist Samsung to create a genuine “For Galaxy” Elite 2 SoC.
What you should be aware of:
– A report from a South Korean outlet suggests Qualcomm is exploring the option of having Samsung manufacture a 2nm Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 alternative.
– This chip is designed specifically “For Galaxy,” targeting the Galaxy S26 series.
– Conversely, Qualcomm reportedly continues to work with TSMC to produce a 3nm Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 for other devices.
– Earlier rumors indicate that the Galaxy S26 Ultra may become even slimmer, along with various camera-related speculations.
A South Korean report states that Qualcomm is considering Samsung Foundry for a genuinely robust alternative version of its upcoming flagship chip.
These insights reported by Business Post were included in a summary by X tipster Jukanlosreve (via 9to5Google). The South Korean article references a “comprehensive report” noting that Qualcomm has commenced early production trials for the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2; however, there exists a variant based on Samsung’s 2nm technology.
According to its findings, this SD 8 Elite Gen 2 version created by Samsung Foundry is presumably set to serve as the “For Galaxy” SoC in the Galaxy S26 series. Sources claim that testing is “ongoing” and mass production is expected to finalize in “the latter half of this year.”
The publication itself expresses speculation regarding this, especially as Samsung’s foundry head, Han Jin-man, is still in the process of obtaining approval to proceed with this 2nm SD 8 Elite Gen 2 process. Nonetheless, there appears to be optimism as Samsung’s 2nm production yield is approximately 30% in its initial phases. It is anticipated to surpass the ~60% yield threshold later this year.
While Samsung could indeed create an authentic “For Galaxy” chip for the S26 series, Qualcomm is said to be maintaining its partnership with TSMC for another 3nm Snapdragon 8 Elite chip. There are likely numerous upgrades in this Elite successor, but the fundamental process appears to remain unchanged.
A 2nm process, you say?
Samsung outlined its strategy to produce enhanced chips for smartphones back in 2023, and it seems those aspirations are beginning to materialize. To summarize swiftly, Samsung expressed a desire to start manufacturing 2nm chips by 2025 before advancing to the 1.4nm process by 2027. In light of these rumors about a 2nm-specific Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 chip “For Galaxy,” that could indeed become a reality.
Additionally, Qualcomm’s interest in Samsung for a 2nm-developed chip takes us back to earlier rumors of the two companies collaborating beginning in 2024. At that time, the Korean manufacturer claimed that its developing 2nm process enhances performance by 12% and power efficiency by 25%. Qualcomm reportedly also reached out to TSMC to achieve the same (a 2nm process). However, these rumors imply that TSMC is sticking with its 3nm for another Elite iteration.
Rumors surrounding the Galaxy S26 have been limited overall, although there are some noteworthy hints, such as enhanced cameras and a thinner Ultra model. It should be highlighted that Samsung might prominently feature its next Exynos chip across its Galaxy S26 series. The latest Exynos 2500 has recently launched, and there are speculations that the Flip 7 and Fold 7 may utilize it in some regions, while others, including the U.S., might continue with Qualcomm.
With rumors about Samsung working on a 2nm process Elite 2, we may need to reconsider past speculations.
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