In a surprising move, Google has decided to switch the manufacturing of its upcoming Pixel 10 series processor from Samsung Foundry to TSMC. This decision has left Samsung Foundry in a state of shock, prompting the company to launch an investigation into the matter.
Historically, Google's Tensor chips have been a collaboration between Google's design and Samsung's Exynos processors. However, this year's Tensor G5 chip will be entirely designed by Google and manufactured by TSMC using its cutting-edge 3nm process node.
The news of Google's decision has raised concerns at Samsung Foundry, as the company's market share has been declining while TSMC's continues to rise. Additionally, Samsung Foundry has been plagued by yield issues, leading to Qualcomm shifting its chip production to TSMC earlier this year.
As Samsung Foundry prepares to launch its Exynos 2600 chip for the Galaxy S26 series, the company faces a critical test. The success of this chip could potentially strengthen Samsung Foundry's position in the market, while failure could lead to drastic measures, such as spinning off or selling the division.
