Qualcomm’s Optimism for Dual-Sourcing from Samsung & TSMC; Aims for 2nm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 3 Prototype by H2 2026

Recent challenges faced by Samsung in the realm of its 3nm Gate-All-Around (GAA) technology have prompted Qualcomm to shift its focus entirely to TSMC for next year’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 2, utilizing TSMC’s 3nm ‘N3P’ manufacturing process. Despite previous efforts to establish a dual-sourcing supply chain from both Samsung and TSMC, Qualcomm’s attempts have not been fruitful, leaving the company with little option but to rely on TSMC due to Samsung’s ongoing difficulties. Nevertheless, Samsung is reportedly setting its ambitions on the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 3, with whispers indicating that Qualcomm is encouraging the Korean firm to prototype a 2nm chip by the latter half of 2026.

Samsung’s Aspirations: Overcoming Challenges in 2nm Development

Historically, Samsung has been rumored to pursue its 2nm technology, codenamed ‘Ulysses’. However, to secure new orders, it must address significant yield issues that have previously hampered its foundry operations. Current setbacks imply that the Exynos 2500 chipset is unlikely to be ready in time, consequently relegating the upcoming Galaxy S25 series to launch solely with the Snapdragon 8 Elite. Despite these hurdles, Samsung is actively working on the aforementioned 2nm process, and there are indications that Qualcomm may have insights into this development, which could facilitate Samsung in obtaining Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 3 orders.

Although reports suggest that we will not see the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 3 launch until the fourth quarter of 2026, some sources, including a Chinese outlet, assert that Qualcomm is gearing up for Samsung’s development of a prototype utilizing a 2nm process. Should this trial System-on-Chip (SoC) meet Qualcomm’s standards, and if Samsung can consistently produce stable wafer outputs, the firm might regain its position in Qualcomm’s supply chain.

The Importance of Multiple Suppliers for Qualcomm

Qualcomm stands to benefit significantly from having multiple suppliers. As it stands, the anticipated Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 2 is expected to exert pressure on smartphone manufacturers’ profits due to its premium pricing. It’s crucial to note, however, that it remains premature to declare Samsung’s revival in this competitive landscape. Thus, while we remain optimistic, we advise caution regarding these rumors and will provide updates as further information emerges.

News Source: MyDrivers

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