Samsung to Embrace Exynos Chips for Galaxy S26 Series, Shifting Away from Snapdragon

In a groundbreaking move, Samsung is set to utilize its own Exynos chips across the entire Galaxy S26 series, including the premium Ultra model, for the first time in over a year. According to a new report from Hankyung, the upcoming Exynos 2600 chipset promises significant advancements in performance, potentially surpassing rivals from both Apple and Qualcomm.

Powerful Performance of Exynos 2600

The Exynos 2600 is generating buzz with its impressive specifications. Key highlights of the chipset include:

  • CPU Performance: Slightly improves upon Apple’s A19 Pro.
  • Graphics Processing Unit (GPU): Offers up to 75% better performance compared to previous generations.
  • Neural Processing Unit (NPU): Claims a staggering 6x speed increase over Apple’s chip, making it exceptionally capable for artificial intelligence tasks.
  • Semi-Conductor Technology: Produced using Samsung’s advanced 2nm process, which enhances efficiency and performance.

Experts agree that these advancements mark a significant step forward in Samsung’s chip development strategy, potentially reestablishing its competitiveness in the market.

Shift in Strategy: All-In on Exynos

This transition to Exynos chips across all models—including the top-tier Ultra—represents a notable shift for Samsung. Traditionally, the Ultra variant has relied on Qualcomm’s Snapdragon processors, especially since 2022. This new strategy highlights Samsung’s confidence in its in-house technology.

However, the report notes a caveat: while the Galaxy S26 series will primarily feature Exynos chips, consumers in North America, Japan, and China may still receive models powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5. This decision appears to align with local regulatory requirements, ensuring that Samsung navigates the complex approval processes in different markets.

The Roller Coaster of Chipmaking Rumors

Observers of the tech industry have encountered fluctuating reports regarding Samsung’s chip strategy, often leading to confusion. The ongoing debate about Exynos versus Snapdragon chips has elicited varied opinions, with some fans eagerly anticipating the performance boost from Exynos, while others express skepticism based on past experiences. As the launch date approaches, set for January, consumers are advised to stay tuned for updates, keeping in mind the unpredictable nature of these rumors.

“Samsung’s determination to push Exynos across all models signals a confidence boost in their capabilities, but consumers should remain cautious given the history of shifting strategies in this space,” said a tech analyst.

As the tech giant continues to innovate, the upcoming Galaxy S26 series stands as a pivotal moment in Samsung’s efforts to regain its footing in a fiercely competitive smartphone market.