Samsung’s 2nm push could shake up smartphone chip sourcing as costs climb
Reports indicate Samsung has begun mass production of the Exynos 2600 on its 2nm GAA process, a next‑gen node expected to power multiple Galaxy S26 models. If Samsung’s rollout stays on track, the move could give Qualcomm and MediaTek a timely alternative as they navigate rising wafer prices at competing fabs.
Pricing pressure is the big catalyst. Talk of a 50 percent jump for 2nm has circulated, though other accounts suggest 2nm wafers may stay around $30,000 each. What does look more certain is higher pricing at 3nm, with N3E and N3P said to be climbing to roughly $25,000 and $27,000 per wafer. With both Qualcomm and MediaTek planning to transition to 2nm next year, these costs are hard to ignore, and Korean outlet Chosun reports that both companies are eyeing Samsung’s 2nm GAA as a viable alternative.
Qualcomm is already rumored to be working closely with Samsung, evaluating a 2nm GAA variant of the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for upcoming flagship devices. MediaTek’s roadmap is advancing as well: it has completed tape‑out of its first 2nm SoC and targets a 2026 launch.
The economics help explain the potential shift. Current estimates peg the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 at up to $280 per chip and the Dimensity 9500 around $200. If next year’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 nudges past $300, device makers will be forced to choose between trimming specs or accepting tighter margins. A competitive second source at 2nm could ease that squeeze.
All of this puts Samsung in a favorable position. With reported 2nm GAA yields around 50 percent, the company has a real opening to win meaningful orders and expand its foundry market share. That said, it still needs to overcome a checkered reputation from prior nodes. Securing long‑term commitments from top chip designers will require sustained improvements in yields, consistency, and delivery.
Bottom line: as 2nm ramps and wafer prices rise, dual‑sourcing is back in the spotlight. If Samsung executes on its 2nm GAA roadmap, it could become a pivotal partner for Qualcomm and MediaTek—and reshape the supply dynamics behind 2025 and 2026 flagship smartphones.
