Samsung, after facing significant challenges in its foundry operations throughout 2024, has officially unveiled its first 2 nm processor developed entirely in-house: the Exynos 2600. While the breakthrough 2 nm architecture is impressive on its own, the company has achieved an even more remarkable milestone.
With the Galaxy S26 series launching next year, Samsung is advancing steadily toward full self-reliance in chipset technology. Recent reports reveal that Samsung has embarked on designing fully proprietary GPUs (Graphics Processing Units) for its flagship smartphones, marking a significant shift toward independent hardware innovation.
Exynos 2600 Paves the Way Forward
All Galaxy S25 models previously relied on Snapdragon processors. | Image credit — PhoneArena
A report (translated source) has disclosed that Samsung successfully designed a GPU for the Exynos 2600 utilizing its own proprietary technology, although still based partly on AMD architecture. This collaboration integrates years of Samsung's independent research, promising better customization and performance optimization.
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Samsung, like other tech giants such as Meta, Apple, and Google, anticipates that AR (Augmented Reality) smart glasses could shape the future of computing. The development of in-house GPUs is crucial for Samsung to build AR hardware with seamless integration between the hardware and software, ensuring fluid and reliable performance.
Samsung’s Move Toward a Fully Proprietary GPU
Leaked Galaxy S26 Ultra design. | Image credit — Android Headlines
The upcoming Galaxy S26 devices will be powered by the Exynos 2600, and Samsung intends to continue using its own chips in future generations. According to the report (translated source), Samsung has confirmed plans to debut a GPU completely designed and developed in-house by 2027. This next-generation GPU will move away from AMD’s architecture, relying fully on Samsung's own years of dedicated research and development.
Do you think these Exynos chips will live up to the hype?
Poll results from 16 votes:
Yes, Samsung has had many years to perfect its craft - 43.75%
No, I've been burned by Exynos way too many times - 12.5%
They might, or they might not. I don't really care - 43.75%
Why Does This Matter?
This chip is ready to perform miracles. | Image credit — Samsung
In a time when smartphone prices are facing upward pressure, having greater control over component design can help Samsung manage costs more effectively. By integrating even a single key component, like a GPU, that is developed in-house, Samsung can better adapt to the fluctuating market and offer competitive pricing without sacrificing performance or innovation.
