Samsung is making significant strides in developing its 2 nm Exynos 2600 chip intended for the upcoming Galaxy S26 smartphones. Following the stabilization of its 3 nm chip production, the company shifted focus towards the more advanced 2 nm chip manufacturing. This move is part of Samsung’s long-term vision to enhance its competitiveness in the semiconductor market.
Recent reports indicate that Samsung Foundry’s yield for the 2 nm process has exceeded 40 percent, closing the gap on TSMC’s yield rate of 60 percent. Mass production of the Exynos 2600 is expected to commence by November 2023, enabling Samsung to incorporate this new chip into the Galaxy S26 series slated for release the following year. Historically, tech enthusiasts have expressed reservations about Samsung’s Exynos processors, often viewing them as less powerful and efficient compared to Qualcomm’s Snapdragon chips.
In fact, Samsung’s devices sold in the U.S. typically featured Snapdragon processors, while those in other regions utilized Exynos technology. If the Galaxy S26 series effectively integrates the Exynos 2600, it could mark a turning point for Samsung, especially given recent challenges faced by Samsung Foundry, including yield issues that led to layoffs. Nevertheless, the potential for improved performance with the Exynos 2600 is promising.
With this ambitious chip rollout, Samsung aims to compete directly with Apple’s advancements in silicon technology, particularly as reports suggest that the iPhone 17 will remain at a 3 nm process. Regardless of which chipset the Galaxy S26 adopts, it is poised to be a top contender in the smartphone market of 2026. Many hope that Samsung will introduce substantial upgrades beyond basic AI or software enhancements in its next flagship devices.