Samsung Galaxy S26 to Feature Exynos 2600 Chip, But Only in Select Markets
Samsung is set to launch its new Galaxy S26 and S26 Plus with the in‑house Exynos 2600 chip, but this new processor will only be available in select markets, specifically Korea. Meanwhile, U.S. buyers can expect the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor. This move continues Samsung’s tradition of using Qualcomm chips in major markets.
Market‑Specific Chip Allocation
The new Exynos 2600 chip is planned for use in the Galaxy S26 and S26 Plus, but only in Korea. This is part of Samsung’s strategy to use its in‑house chips in select markets while relying on Qualcomm’s Snapdragon processors for major markets like the United States.
Improvements to the Exynos Lineup
Samsung is working to improve the reputation of its Exynos chips, which have been criticized for issues such as overheating and inconsistent performance. The company has introduced a new Heat Pass Block cooling layer and refined the 2 nm production process to boost yield and overall performance.
Business Agreements Limit Wider Rollout
Despite these technical improvements, the broader rollout of the Exynos 2600 is constrained by existing business agreements. Samsung maintains a long‑term deal with Qualcomm that requires Snapdragon chips to power roughly 75 % of the Galaxy S series phones, meaning most global buyers will still receive the Qualcomm version.
Launch Timeline
Earlier rumors suggested a possible delay for the Galaxy S26 launch, but newer reports indicate that the lineup is on track to arrive in late January 2026. When the Galaxy S26 lineup finally lands, most buyers won’t have a choice between chips, as the decision will already have been made for them.
Key Takeaways
- The Galaxy S26 and S26 Plus will launch with the Exynos 2600 chip exclusively in Korea.
- U.S. consumers will receive the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor.
- Samsung’s enhancements aim to address past Exynos shortcomings, but contractual obligations with Qualcomm keep the Snapdragon dominant in most markets.
- The expected release window is late January 2026.
