Qualcomm is reportedly working on two versions of its upcoming Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 2 chipset, codenamed ‘Kaanapali,’ with one of them, ‘Kaanapali S,’ currently undergoing trial production using Samsung’s cutting-edge 2nm GAA technology. While it was initially believed that Qualcomm had exclusively chosen TSMC for mass production of the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 2 on its 3nm N3P process, recent reports suggest that Samsung might still get a share of the production thanks to its 2nm GAA process. As of now, the ‘Kaanapali S’ version is being trialed with Samsung’s 2nm technology, with yields gradually improving. Qualcomm’s ambition of dual-sourcing from both TSMC and Samsung might be within reach if Samsung’s 2nm yields continue to climb. Samsung has assured investors during its Q1 2025 earnings call that it is working on stabilizing its 2nm GAA production and is aiming to begin accepting orders by the second half of 2025. The company has also reportedly begun prototype mass production of its Exynos 2600, with hopes of boosting its yields to 50 percent in the coming months. As for the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 2, it is expected to have two variants: one produced by TSMC and the other by Samsung. The Samsung variant will likely be exclusive to the Galaxy S26 series and is currently undergoing test production. If everything goes as planned, mass production should begin in the latter half of 2025, with official production set for Q1 2026. Although Samsung’s 2nm GAA technology is still catching up to TSMC’s 3nm process, the South Korean giant could have the last laugh if it successfully brings its 2nm solution to the market. Qualcomm’s decision to give Samsung a chance might signal a shift in the competition between the two foundries.
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