Qualcomm appears to be taking a page from Apple’s playbook when it comes to its Snapdragon chipsets. Just like Apple’s A-series chips, the upcoming Snapdragon 8 Elite 3 might come in two variants-something that hasn’t been the norm in the past. 
Qualcomm is planning to manufacture both versions of the Snapdragon 8 Elite 3 using a 2 nm process, a significant step forward for the smartphone industry.
This shift mirrors Apple’s strategy, where a base model and a “Pro” version of its chips cater to different market segments. The Snapdragon 8 Elite 3, similar to the A-series, will likely introduce a high-performance variant that targets premium devices and a more affordable option for mid-range phones. Both variants will be produced using the cutting-edge 2 nm process, which promises better performance and efficiency but could also lead to a significant increase in production costs. As a result, we could see higher prices for phones featuring these chips, which may also discourage some manufacturers from adopting the new Snapdragon models.
TSMC (Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company) will handle production, leaving Samsung Foundry behind after reportedly failing to secure orders for the 2 nm process. This leaves Samsung with a challenge, especially as its Exynos chips are still under development. While the Exynos 2500 was initially set for the Galaxy S25, delays have pushed Samsung to focus on perfecting the Exynos 2600 for the Galaxy S26.
The changes Qualcomm is making with the Snapdragon 8 Elite 3 could also affect Samsung’s chip strategy. The company has put significant effort into the Exynos 2500, yet it will still rely on Snapdragon for certain high-end models like the Galaxy Z Fold 7. If Qualcomm can offer a more affordable alternative with its base Snapdragon 8 Elite 3, we could see more budget-friendly options powered by these chips. This would make Snapdragon a more attractive choice for phone makers, especially when competing with MediaTek.
Similar to Apple’s A-series, Qualcomm might also aim for a clearer distinction between standard and Pro models in its Snapdragon lineup. The Snapdragon 8 Elite 3 could challenge Apple’s A20 chips in 2026, setting the stage for a fierce competition between the two tech giants in the 2 nm race.