Qualcomm is exploring the possibility of manufacturing its latest Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 chipset at Samsung Foundry. This move may signal a strategic shift for the American semiconductor giant, which has largely depended on Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) for its high-end chips.
Negotiations between Qualcomm and Samsung are focused on utilizing Samsung’s second-generation 2-nanometer (nm) fabrication technology. If a deal is reached, it would mark a return of some premium Qualcomm chipset production to Samsung after previous challenges with yield and power efficiency.
Samsung’s Advances in 2nm Fabrication Technology
Samsung’s breakthrough with its 2nm SF2P process is a key factor attracting Qualcomm’s interest. South Korean reports highlight significant improvements in production stability, power efficiency, and performance compared to earlier nodes.
For years, TSMC has dominated the global chip manufacturing industry. Major companies such as Apple, Qualcomm, and Google have consistently chosen TSMC for their high-performance chipset production. However, Samsung’s development of 2nm technology could alter the competitive landscape.
Qualcomm CEO Confirms Talks with Samsung
Cristiano Amon, Qualcomm’s CEO, confirmed the active discussions with Samsung during CES 2026. He stated, “Among various foundry companies, we have initiated talks with Samsung Electronics first regarding contract manufacturing using their latest 2nm process,” as reported by GizmoChina.
Although Amon did not explicitly name the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6, industry insiders widely believe that the chipset is the center of these talks. This processor is expected to power upcoming premium Android smartphones.
Shift in Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Production Strategy
Previously, Qualcomm heavily relied on TSMC for its flagship chipsets, including the Snapdragon 8 Gen series. This decision ensured high performance and stable power efficiency, given Samsung Foundry’s earlier struggles in these areas.
Should Qualcomm entrust Samsung with manufacturing the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6, it would imply that Samsung’s fabrication process has matured sufficiently. Both yield rates and power consumption levels must meet the rigorous standards set for flagship chipsets.
Samsung Targets Major Clients in the 2nm Era
Samsung plans to begin mass production of 2nm chips ahead of its competitors. Its first application will be in the internal Exynos 2600 processor, likely powering the Samsung Galaxy S26 lineup.
Beyond internal uses, Samsung Foundry is attracting other significant clients. Tesla reportedly has a partnership in place, while tech giants AMD and Google are evaluating Samsung’s 2nm technology for future products.
A successful collaboration with Qualcomm could intensify competition between Samsung and TSMC in the 2nm generation. This development may usher in a new chapter in the global semiconductor industry where Samsung challenges TSMC’s longstanding dominance.
Key Points on Qualcomm and Samsung 2nm Collaboration
- Qualcomm is in active talks to manufacture Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 with Samsung using 2nm SF2P technology.
- Samsung’s second-generation 2nm offers improved yield, power efficiency, and performance.
- Qualcomm CEO Cristiano Amon confirmed discussions at CES 2026 but did not specify the chipset name.
- Qualcomm’s pivot to Samsung indicates trust in Samsung’s manufacturing maturity for flagship chips.
- Samsung plans early mass production of 2nm for its own Exynos chips and aims to woo premium clients including Tesla, AMD, and Google.
- A partnership with Qualcomm could disrupt TSMC’s dominance and reshape semiconductor industry dynamics.
This ongoing development highlights the shifting tides in semiconductor manufacturing, where technological advancements and strategic alliances determine market leadership. Qualcomm’s exploration of Samsung’s 2nm fabrication signals the potential rise of a more competitive era beyond TSMC’s reign.
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