Samsung has officially confirmed that the Galaxy S26 Ultra will use the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset across all markets. This decision is based on recent documentation from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in the United States, indicating no variant will carry the Exynos chipset as previously speculated.
The FCC listing includes two model numbers, SM-S948B and SM-S948U, both indicating the internal chipset code SM8850, which Qualcomm has designated for the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5. Samsung’s model coding reveals that the "B" version targets global or unlocked markets, while the "U" version is tailored for U.S. carriers.
This shift marks a continuation of Samsung’s strategy seen with recent Galaxy S Ultra models. The company has favored Snapdragon chips for its high-end Ultra series to ensure consistent performance worldwide. Meanwhile, the more standard Galaxy S26 and S26+ models will still follow a dual chipset policy, primarily using Snapdragon globally except in South Korea, where the Exynos 2600 chipset is expected to remain.
Samsung’s exclusive use of Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 in the Ultra variant signals a strong commitment to performance and power efficiency. This consistency allows consumers to anticipate a uniform experience regardless of purchase location. The move is crucial for maintaining the Ultra model’s reputation as a top-tier device favored by power users, creative professionals, and gamers.
Strategic Impact and Market Context
Samsung’s decision to adopt a single chipset architecture for the highest-end Galaxy S26 Ultra reflects intense competition in the flagship smartphone market. Apple’s control over its custom A-series chips and aggressive adoption of the latest Snapdragon processors by Chinese competitors highlight the importance of chipset consistency.
Historically, devices equipped with Exynos and Snapdragon chips had varying performance outcomes, sometimes creating consumer dissatisfaction. By standardizing on the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, Samsung simplifies hardware and software optimization processes. Developers of apps and games can now design with one primary hardware platform in mind, boosting ecosystem stability and performance predictability.
Additional leaks also indicate that the Galaxy S26 Ultra will feature an increased battery capacity to complement the efficiency gains promised by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5. The design is said to include a prominent camera bump and bold color choices, which may appeal to style-conscious buyers.
Despite emphasizing Snapdragon for the Ultra model, Samsung does not abandon its Exynos chipset program. The Exynos 2600 is still expected to power Galaxy S26 and S26+ models in South Korea. This two-track approach balances leveraging Qualcomm’s leading technology for global competitiveness while continuing to advance Samsung’s in-house chip development for selective markets and future generations.
The FCC certification suggests that the Galaxy S26 Ultra’s release is imminent. Consumers interested in the ultimate Samsung flagship can expect enhanced performance without the uncertainty of regional chipset differences. The next focus will be on how Samsung leverages the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5’s capabilities in terms of cooling solutions, camera integration, and on-device artificial intelligence processing.
This confirmation provides clarity amid ongoing rumors, reassuring buyers that the Galaxy S26 Ultra aims to deliver a seamless, high-performance experience globally.
