[News] Samsung Exynos 2600 May Cover Just 30% of Galaxy S26 Production Amid Reported Yield Issues

Samsung is pushing for an Exynos comeback, with reports indicating the Exynos 2600 has performed strongly in internal tests. However, low yields may still hinder the chip’s wider adoption. According to South Korean media outlet DealSite, citing sources, Samsung’s foundry has begun mass production of the Exynos 2600 using its cutting-edge 2nm process. The chip is expected to power the upcoming Galaxy S26 series; however, adoption may stay limited, with initial output said to be around 15,000 wafers — roughly 30% of the Galaxy S26 units planned for next year.

In addition, the Galaxy S series consists of Base, Plus, and Ultra models. Analysts cited in the report note that using the Exynos 2600 in the top-tier Ultra version is still considered “premature.” The report adds that the Exynos 2600 is expected to mainly power domestic Korean models, while Qualcomm’s Snapdragon chips will continue to dominate in North America and other overseas markets.

As for yield, the report, citing sources, highlights that the overall 2nm process yield for the Exynos 2600 remains around 30%. However, yields for the AP itself have improved significantly. Owing to its smaller die size, more functional chips can be produced per wafer, enhancing manufacturing efficiency. As a result, the AP’s yield is now understood to have reached roughly 50%.

Samsung Pushes 2nm Yields for Tesla and Exynos

Apart from the Exynos 2600, Samsung’s foundry division is also ramping up preparations to fulfill its Tesla order. The report notes that Samsung aims to significantly improve 2nm yields before trial production of Tesla’s AI6 chips begins next year. Citing sources, it adds that the company targets a yield of around 50% by then, whereas yields of 70% or higher are typically required to lower manufacturing costs and ensure stable supply.

Samsung’s partnership with Tesla has also expanded beyond the AI6 program. After Tesla selected the company in July to produce its AI6 processor under a $16.5 billion contract, CEO Elon Musk revealed during the latest earnings call, as cited by CNBC, that both Samsung and TSMC will now share production of the AI5 chip.

Efforts to raise 2nm yield are critical for Samsung’s foundry business. The report from DealSite points out that mass production of the Exynos 2600 and the Tesla order will serve as key reference points. If major clients such as Qualcomm and other big tech firms begin actively adopting Samsung’s foundry services as a result, the company could be positioned for a turnaround.

Read more

• [News] Tesla AI5 Production Split Between Samsung, TSMC; Musk Cites Samsung’s “Advanced Equipment”
• [News] Samsung Exynos 2600 Reportedly Boasts 75% GPU Lead Over Apple A19 in Internal Testing

(Photo credit: Samsung)