Samsung is expanding production of second-generation 2nm chips, promising better performance and energy efficiency for smartphones and AI systems. Learn about upcoming Exynos and Snapdragon processors.
© D. Novikov
Samsung has announced it is preparing to begin production of second-generation chips using its 2-nanometer process technology later this year. This next phase in semiconductor manufacturing promises significant gains in both performance and energy efficiency, which will be crucial for future flagship devices and AI systems.
In its fourth-quarter 2025 earnings report, Samsung stated that its Foundry division is gearing up to expand production of the second-generation 2-nm technology, known as SF2P. The company plans to ramp up volumes gradually throughout 2026. This timeline aligns with the roadmap Samsung published back in 2022 and underscores its commitment to competing in the most advanced process nodes.
The first mass-market chip based on the 2-nm process was the Exynos 2600, which is slated for use in millions of Galaxy S26 and Galaxy S26+ smartphones. However, the second generation of the process is expected to deliver more noticeable improvements. Such updates typically offer lower power consumption and higher performance within the same chip footprint.
Rumors suggest Samsung Foundry could produce a special version of the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 using the new 2-nm process this year, along with a future Exynos 2700 with enhanced cooling. These solutions could form the foundation for the Galaxy S27 series, anticipated for early 2027.
While Samsung has trailed behind TSMC in attracting customers for its most cutting-edge nodes in recent years, the situation is beginning to shift. The company secured a major contract from Tesla to manufacture its AI6 chip using the 2-nm process. Furthermore, industry insiders report that AMD and Qualcomm are evaluating Samsung's capabilities for their future products.