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Qualcomm Cancels Samsung's 2nm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 2 Plan
Qualcomm has silently ended its plans to manufacture the 2nm version of the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 2 chip with Samsung, according to a recent report from industry insider @Jukanlosreve. Internal documentation previously indicated two variants in development: a 3nm model produced by TSMC (8850-T) and a 2nm model slated for Samsung’s fabrication plants (8850-S). Only the standard SM8850 remains, confirming the cancellation of the 2nm Samsung-backed chip.
A Major Setback for Samsung’s Foundry Ambitions
This development marks a significant setback for Samsung’s semiconductor foundry division. For years, Samsung has been aggressively positioning itself to rival TSMC, the global leader in chip manufacturing. Securing Qualcomm as a partner for 2nm chips would have been a crucial win, potentially elevating Samsung’s status in the advanced semiconductor segment.
However, Samsung’s 2nm process has encountered persistent yield challenges, raising concerns about its readiness for large-scale production. Qualcomm’s decision underscores a lack of confidence in Samsung’s ability to deliver on cutting-edge process technology for flagship mobile processors.
Comparisons and Future Outlook
The competition in next-generation chip technology is intensifying. Both Apple and MediaTek are expected to launch 2nm chips using TSMC’s advanced nodes by 2026, potentially widening TSMC’s lead in the foundry market and putting Samsung at a further disadvantage.
Despite the setback, Qualcomm remains committed to 2nm technology. The company reportedly plans to introduce 2nm chips like the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 3 and the SM8945, but both will use TSMC’s manufacturing capabilities instead of Samsung’s. This strategic move signals that Qualcomm’s near-term 2nm roadmap is now firmly tied to a single, trusted supplier.
Implications for the Market
The loss goes beyond a single SoC. For Samsung, failing to attract high-profile clients like Qualcomm for its advanced nodes casts doubt on its ambition to compete with TSMC at the forefront of the semiconductor industry. As major brands increasingly favor TSMC for cutting-edge chips, Samsung will need to address its technological and yield issues to remain a viable contender on the global stage.
Product Features and Use Cases
The next wave of 2nm chips promises significant improvements: enhanced energy efficiency, increased processing power, and smaller form factors for flagship smartphones and devices. These advancements are critical for applications in AI processing, high-performance mobile gaming, and next-generation connectivity.
Conclusion
Qualcomm’s strategic pivot highlights TSMC’s dominance in semiconductor innovation and deepens Samsung’s challenges in the foundry market. As 2nm processors become the new benchmark for premium smartphones and devices, the global semiconductor race is expected to intensify, with innovation and reliability being key differentiators for tech giants and their suppliers.
Source: phandroid
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