Samsung Exploring Multi-Channel Partnerships with Foundry Companies for Exynos SoC Technology Integration

Samsung’s challenges with the low and fluctuating yields of its 3nm Gate-All-Around (GAA) process have effectively ruled out the use of the Exynos 2500 chip in next year’s Galaxy S25 models. As a result, the upcoming flagship launches will be exclusively powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite. With minimal prospects for yield improvement, it appears that Samsung may need to explore partnerships with other semiconductor foundries to ensure the viability of its Exynos line in the future.

The Potential for Partnership with TSMC

While recent reports do not explicitly mention TSMC, this prominent Taiwanese foundry stands as Samsung’s most viable option for large-scale production of Exynos processors through a potential joint venture. Samsung’s chip manufacturing branch, known as LSI, aims to revitalize its foundry sector by collaborating with various firms. According to a report from @Jukanlosreve, there has been speculation regarding partnerships, but it remains unclear how extensive these collaborations might be.

The only company currently capable of mass-producing cutting-edge semiconductor wafers is TSMC. Although AMD is mentioned in the report, it is primarily known for procuring chip orders from TSMC rather than acting as a manufacturing partner. Should Samsung pursue partnerships, it is important to note that it wouldn’t necessarily transfer all Exynos production to these external companies.

Samsung’s strategy appears to focus on a “multi-faceted collaboration,” which aims to diversify its interests across mobile technology, automotive applications, and communication sectors to stabilize its performance amidst ongoing production challenges. However, even if Samsung approaches TSMC for collaboration, there are no guarantees that TSMC would accept, especially given its strong standing in the semiconductor industry, which allows it to set conditions favorable to its growth plans.

Recently, TSMC celebrated a significant achievement by attaining a 60% yield in its trial production of the advanced 2nm process technology. Given the higher demand for 2nm wafers compared to 3nm, partnering with Samsung may not benefit TSMC strategically. Nevertheless, negotiations in the semiconductor industry can often be shrouded in secrecy. As developments unfold behind the scenes, we will keep our audience informed with updates in the weeks to come.

News Source: The Bell

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