Introduction
Samsung Foundry has made significant strides in advancing its chip manufacturing, particularly with the transition to 2nm Gate-All-Around (GAA) technology. This improvement is crucial as it directly impacts the production and performance of Samsung’s upcoming flagship mobile processors. The Exynos 2600, Samsung’s latest 2nm chip, is expected to power the Galaxy S26 and S26+ models in several markets, marking a potential milestone for Samsung’s semiconductor division and smartphone flagship line.
Samsung Transitions from FinFET to Gate-All-Around Transistors
Samsung is replacing its aging FinFET transistor technology, first introduced with its 14nm mobile application processors in 2015, with advanced Gate-All-Around (GAA) transistors. Unlike FinFETs, GAA transistors utilize vertically stacked horizontal nanosheets that envelop the channel on all four sides, significantly reducing current leakage and enhancing drive current. This breakthrough enables the development of chips that are both more powerful and energy-efficient.
Samsung's Exynos 2600 AP promises a 5% performance increase. | Image courtesy of Samsung
2nm Exynos 2600 Could Lead the Galaxy S26 Series
The Galaxy S26 and S26+ could become the first flagship smartphones to feature a 2nm processor with the Exynos 2600 powering units in Europe and South Korea. Meanwhile, the 3nm Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 Elite is expected to drive the U.S., China, and Japan models, with Qualcomm’s chip exclusive to the Galaxy S26 Ultra globally.
Performance and Efficiency Gains with 2nm Technology
Earlier projections suggested that 2nm chips would deliver up to a 12% performance improvement, 25% better power efficiency, and a 5% smaller footprint compared to their 3nm predecessors. However, Samsung recently disclosed updated metrics showing:
- Up to 5% increase in performance relative to 3nm chips.
- Up to 8% boost in power efficiency.
- Up to 5% reduction in chip area.
These refinements stem from Samsung's enhanced 2nm manufacturing yield, which climbed from an initial 30% to between 50% and 60%. This jump in yield boosts wafer production significantly above the previous 15,000 units per month, positioning Samsung to meet demand for the Exynos 2600 in its 2026 flagship smartphones.
Samsung Foundry's Revival and Market Impact
Samsung Foundry’s progress comes after past difficulties, including limited 3nm chip yields that led to supply shortages for the Galaxy S25 series, forcing Samsung to overspend on Snapdragon chips. Presently, Samsung is securing large-scale contracts with companies like MicroBT, Canaan, and Tesla, bolstering its presence in the chip fabrication market.
Despite holding only 7.3% of the foundry market share as of Q2 2024—far behind industry leader TSMC’s 70.2%—Samsung aims to improve its market position to 20% by 2027 and become profitable. This turnaround signals growing competitiveness and potential for Samsung Foundry moving forward.
Looking Forward: Exynos vs Qualcomm
While Qualcomm has historically shifted Snapdragon chip manufacturing to TSMC, rumors persist about a possible return to Samsung Foundry. As Samsung's yield and technology improve, the Exynos 2600 could provide a viable alternative in select Galaxy S26 markets.
Which AP Do You Prefer for Your Phone?
Recent poll results: Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 - 80%, Exynos 2600 - 0%, Dimensity 9500 - 20% (Votes: 5)
