Samsung Reportedly Shifts Entire Galaxy S26 Line to Exynos Chips in Major Processor Strategy Overhaul

Major Processor Strategy Shift

Samsung is reportedly planning a significant strategic pivot by equipping its entire Galaxy S26 smartphone lineup, including the flagship Ultra model, with its homegrown Exynos processors instead of Qualcomm’s Snapdragon chips. According to reports from Hankyung via 9to5Google, this move represents a major departure from the company’s previous strategy of using different processors in different regions.

Major Processor Strategy Shift
Next-Generation Exynos 2600 Performance
Significant Lead Over Apple’s A19 Pro
Regional Distribution Uncertainties
Historical Context and Market Implications
Current Generation Performance Baseline

Next-Generation Exynos 2600 Performance

The chip powering both standard and Ultra Galaxy S26 models is said to be the Exynos 2600, manufactured using an advanced 2nm process. Sources indicate this new processor is shaping up to deliver substantial performance improvements over competing chips. The report states that the neural processing unit designed for AI tasks and the graphics chip are both approximately 30% faster than Qualcomm’s upcoming Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, which is expected to power other top Android phones in 2026.

Significant Lead Over Apple’s A19 Pro

Analysts suggest the performance gap with Apple’s anticipated A19 Pro chip in the iPhone 17 Pro range could be even more substantial. According to the report, the Exynos 2600’s graphics processing unit is projected to be 75% faster, while its neural processing unit could deliver six times the performance of Apple’s best chip. This would represent one of the most significant performance advantages Samsung has ever claimed over Apple’s mobile processors.

Regional Distribution Uncertainties

Despite the apparent confidence in its own silicon, Samsung may continue offering Snapdragon variants in certain markets. The report indicates that US consumers might still receive Snapdragon-equipped Galaxy S26 models to “ensure smooth local regulatory approvals.” It remains unclear whether European and UK markets will transition fully to Exynos processors or maintain the current mixed approach that has characterized recent Galaxy flagship releases.

Historical Context and Market Implications

Samsung has traditionally reserved its most powerful Ultra-series models for Snapdragon processors, making this potential shift particularly noteworthy. The move signals growing confidence in Samsung’s own chip design capabilities and manufacturing processes. If the performance claims prove accurate, this could significantly alter the competitive landscape in the premium smartphone segment when the Galaxy S26 series launches in early 2026., according to industry analysis

Current Generation Performance Baseline

The reported shift comes as the current Galaxy S25 Ultra with its specially tuned Snapdragon 8 Elite processor has been receiving positive performance reviews. Industry observers note that the current generation already delivers what analysts describe as “one of the most powerful mobile chipsets available today,” setting a high bar for the Exynos 2600 to surpass.