Samsung may shift its entire Galaxy S25 series to utilize Snapdragon processors, contrary to earlier plans for a mixed chipset strategy. Initially, reports suggested that the standard and Plus models would be powered by Exynos chips, while the Ultra model would feature a Snapdragon processor. However, recent sources from Korea indicate that low production yields for the Exynos 2500 could hinder Samsung’s ability to produce enough units for the expected January 2025 launch.
This situation could lead Samsung to rely entirely on Snapdragon chips for the entire Galaxy S25 lineup.
A report from Business Korea highlights that Samsung is grappling with difficulties in its 3nm chip production process, experiencing “low yield,” although specific figures have not been disclosed. The chip manufacturing process typically involves some waste, as rectangular chips are cut from circular wafers, and not all chips meet quality standards, resulting in yield variations across production lines.
If Samsung decides to use the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4, potentially branded as Snapdragon 8 Elite, for the Galaxy S25 series, it would mark another setback for the company’s semiconductor division. Samsung has already lost crucial contracts with Nvidia and Apple, both of which have turned to TSMC for their AI-focused chips.
As for the launch date, the Galaxy S25 series is expected to debut in February 2025, aligning with the company’s typical release schedule. The lineup will include the S25, S25+, and S25 Ultra. Rumors also suggest that the regular model may be phased out entirely, with plans to discontinue it for the Galaxy S26 series in 2026.
