It’s official: Samsung is betting on its chips to power high-end smartphones in 2026. The company has revealed plans to integrate the new Exynos processor into flagship models, including the anticipated Galaxy S26 and the next generation of foldable devices. This news comes just days after some intriguing leaks regarding the Exynos 2600, which appears to be even more powerful than expected.
Samsung confirmed that the Exynos processor will play a significant role in the company’s 2026 launches during a call with shareholders to discuss financial results. Although the Exynos 2600 wasn’t explicitly mentioned, many believe this will indeed be the processor for the Galaxy S26.
In a recently issued statement, Samsung reported, “In 2026, System LSI Business plans to enhance the competitiveness of the Exynos processor for key flagship models while leveraging differentiated image sensor technologies to broaden market presence.” This clearly sets the stage for exciting developments in mobile technology.
Exynos 2600: The chip for Galaxy S26 and Samsung’s high-end mobiles in 2026
Rumors about the upcoming chip have been circulating for a while, but they gained momentum recently due to a leak. Reports indicate that the Exynos 2600 outperforms the A19 Pro, the processor found in Apple’s iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max.
What makes the Exynos 2600 stand out? For starters, it boasts a CPU that surpasses Apple’s chip. Notably, it also comes with a GPU that offers up to 75% more power and an AI coprocessor that can deliver performance up to six times greater than that of the iPhone 17 Pro. When compared to the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, Samsung’s latest chip is reportedly 30% faster and more efficient, attributed to its 2 nm fabrication process.
While it’s a bit early for excitement, signs suggest that Samsung intends to rely solely on its processors for the upcoming generation of smartphones. For years, the company has utilized both Snapdragon and Exynos models. In 2025, Qualcomm seemingly took the lead, as Samsung struggled with the performance of its chips, leading to stronger models equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Elite.
During the shareholder call, Samsung also announced plans to significantly increase mass production of 2 nm chips in the next quarter. These chips will feature the new Gate-All-Around architecture, replacing the traditional FinFET design with a more efficient and high-performing alternative. The innovations won’t be limited to mobile devices; they are intended for use in computers, data centers, and beyond.
The introduction of the Exynos 2600 signals a pivotal shift for Samsung, particularly in competitive markets where performance and efficiency are paramount. When was the last time you felt that your smartphone was truly living up to its potential? With upcoming releases, consumers may soon experience a level of performance that matches their expectations—or even exceeds them. Can Samsung regain its footing as a top-tier chip manufacturer in a market dominated by established players?
As we look forward to 2026, keep an eye on the developments surrounding the Exynos processor. The interplay between high-performance computing and smartphone functionality may very well redefine user experiences, ushering in an exciting new chapter in mobile technology.
