Exynos 2600: Samsung’s First 2nm GAA Chipset for Galaxy S26 Series

The transition to the 3nm Gate-All-Around (GAA) process is a chapter in Samsung’s semiconductor history that the company would prefer to overlook. However, the critical lessons learned during this period have paved the way for significant advancements. Samsung has made a remarkable recovery with its 2nm GAA node, notably launching the Exynos 2600, which stands as the first system-on-chip (SoC) mass-produced using this cutting-edge technology.

Exploring Samsung’s 2nm GAA Process: A Contender to TSMC’s Offering?

In order to rival TSMC, Samsung must not only enhance production yields but also bolster its technological edge. Previously reported yields for the 2nm GAA were at a mere 30%.However, steady improvements have elevated those yields to 50%, marking a significant step forward.

This progress has enabled Samsung to initiate mass production of the Exynos 2600 by late September. Such advancements indicate that yield rates can be further optimized, allowing for sustainable manufacturing practices. Additionally, the first-generation 2nm GAA process promises to deliver up to 12% better performance than its 3nm predecessor, alongside 25% enhanced power efficiency and a 5% reduction in chip area.

The GAA architecture facilitates improved flexibility and scalability in chipset design, enabling Samsung to reduce costs and optimize resource utilization. Furthermore, the 2nm node implements Backside Power Delivery Network (BSPDN) technology, contributing to more efficient power consumption.

Specifications: CPU, GPU, NPU, and More

While Samsung has been tight-lipped about the specifics of the Exynos 2600’s Neural Processing Unit (NPU), it has hinted at a substantial performance increase over previous iterations. Despite the lack of official details, benchmark leaks have revealed that the Exynos 2600 is expected to feature a 10-core configuration.

It is speculated that the configuration could follow a ‘1 + 3 + 6’ setup. Early results, however, fell short of showcasing the chipset’s full capabilities. Fortunately, updated benchmark scores have emerged, demonstrating impressive performance, particularly in multi-threaded tasks, matching that of an underclocked Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5.

Newer benchmarks indicate the single-performance core operating at 3.80GHz, while the three high-power cores run at 3.26GHz, and the six efficiency cores clock in at 2.76GHz. The increase in core count enhances the multi-core performance of the Exynos 2600. Nonetheless, rising core counts can lead to efficiency challenges and increased power consumption. It appears that Samsung has devised strategies to mitigate these issues.

Mitigating Overheating with Samsung’s ‘Heat Pass Block’ Technology

Samsung aims to minimize excessive heat production in the Exynos 2600 by leveraging an advanced manufacturing process, which is already being implemented. In tandem, the company is turning to innovative packaging solutions. The Exynos 2400 used ‘Fan-out Wafer Level Packaging’ (FOWLP), marking Samsung’s first adoption of this technique for its SoCs.

It is expected that the FOWLP will continue with the Exynos 2600, alongside the introduction of ‘Heat Pass Block’ (HPB) technology, which will function similarly to a heatsink in laptops. Samsung might also consider an aluminum chassis for the Galaxy S26 series, akin to Apple’s strategy with the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max, enhancing heat dissipation further.

Performance & Efficiency: Insights into the Exynos 2600

Preliminary insights regarding the chipset’s single-core and multi-core performance indicate that the Exynos 2600 can take on an underclocked Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5. To date, two variations of the Exynos 2600 have been tested, yielding different frequency results. Below are the specifications for both variants:

First Result

CPU configuration: 1 x 3.55GHz, 3 x 2.96GHz, 6 x 2.46GHz
Geekbench 6 single-core score: 2, 155
Geekbench 6 multi-core score: 7, 788

Second Result

CPU configuration: 1 x 3.80GHz, 3 x 3.26GHz, 6 x 2.76GHz
Geekbench 6 single-core score: 3, 309
Geekbench 6 multi-core score: 11, 256

These early scores suggest that the Exynos 2600 demonstrates strong potential in both single-core and multi-core benchmarks. Should Samsung continue to refine its chipset, we may see these figures improve in the near future.

Galaxy S26 Models Featuring the Exynos 2600

Traditionally, Samsung has equipped its Galaxy S Ultra flagship models exclusively with Snapdragon chipsets over the past three years. With the Exynos 2600 entering mass production by the end of September, we anticipate its inclusion in the more affordable Galaxy S26 and Galaxy S26 Edge models. However, analysts suggest that the Galaxy S26 Ultra may also adopt the Exynos 2600, marking a potential shift in strategy.

Samsung is likely to continue a dual-sourcing approach, depending on market conditions, resulting in either Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 or Exynos 2600 chip versions of the Galaxy S26 series. Previous customers who opted for the Exynos versions may have felt at a disadvantage due to perceived performance gaps. As 2026 approaches, it will be crucial for Samsung to optimize its flagship SoC to keep up with competitive offerings from Qualcomm.

Anticipated Launch Timing

Historically, Samsung tends to unveil its next-generation Exynos chipsets prior to releasing the subsequent Galaxy S flagship series. If this trend continues, we could see an official announcement for the Exynos 2600 within the next few months, potentially in December.

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