Qualcomm has formalized its collaboration with Samsung Foundry to produce next-generation 2nm Snapdragon chips, marking a return to Samsung Foundry after several years.
According to foreign media reports, Cristiano Amon, Qualcomm CEO, said at CES 2026 that "we are in discussions with Samsung Foundry for the production of next-generation 2nm Snapdragon flagship chips."
Amon said that the design of the chip is already complete. The official name of the Qualcomm processor to be produced by Samsung has not yet been released, but industry sources believe it is likely to be the 'Snapdragon 8 Elite 6th Generation' expected to be launched this year.
This decision is seen as a strategic shift for Qualcomm, which has relied almost entirely on TSMC for high-performance chip production in recent years. The industry interprets this as the full-fledged implementation of a 'dual sourcing' strategy aimed at supply chain stability and enhanced negotiating power.
In particular, with TSMC's 2nm wafer prices expected to soar to around $30,000 per unit, analysis suggests that Qualcomm has chosen Samsung as an alternative to reduce cost burdens and diversify risks. By securing Samsung Foundry as a production partner, Qualcomm aims to gain price negotiating power and ensure long-term supply stability.
▶ Original source: https://m.kbench.com/?q=node/275025
