Samsung Exynos 2600 Enters Mass Production, Aims for 50% Yield

Samsung has officially entered the mass production phase for its next-generation Exynos 2600 prototype chip, utilizing its cutting-edge 2nm GAA (Gate-All-Around) process technology. This milestone marks a significant step in the company's ambition to lead in advanced semiconductor manufacturing.

Earlier reports suggested that Samsung's 2nm GAA process had a yield rate of just 30%. However, with sustained R&D efforts and process optimization, the company is aiming to improve yield and potentially gain a competitive edge over TSMC in the high-performance chipmaking race.

Initial trial production of the Exynos 2600 reportedly began in May, though challenges were encountered during the early stages. The latest updates now confirm that the chip has moved into the mass production phase, with Samsung intensifying efforts across its System LSI and Foundry divisions to improve both yield and performance while minimizing manufacturing costs.

Samsung plans to begin full-scale production of the Exynos 2600 around two to three months prior to the expected launch of the Galaxy S26 series, which is anticipated to debut in February 2026. The company has set a short-term target of achieving a 50% yield without compromising chip performance, with a long-term goal of reaching at least 70% yield to support stable high-volume manufacturing.

In its Q1 2025 earnings report, Samsung highlighted the strategic importance of stabilizing its 2nm GAA yields and confirmed plans to achieve full-scale production in the second half of 2025. This timeline aligns with the company's broader goal of attracting major clients for its next-generation process technologies.

Rumors have surfaced suggesting that Samsung may have reached an agreement with Qualcomm to manufacture the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen2 using the 2nm GAA node, though this information has yet to be confirmed.

Following the completion of prototype production, Samsung will transition into risk production for the Exynos 2600. If all goes according to plan, volume production is expected to commence several months ahead of the Galaxy S26 launch.

With TSMC already accepting 2nm wafer orders as of April 1, Samsung now has a critical window of opportunity to secure key customers in the premium chip segment. However, continued progress in process maturity and yield enhancement will be essential for the company to capitalize on this opportunity and avoid missing out on a highly competitive market.