[Report] Samsung starts 3nm Exynos 2500 production, but it may not power Galaxy S25

Samsung started mass production of Exynos 2500 using its cutting edge 3nm process node, Seoul Economic Daily reports. While the production commenced as an unexpected development, the chip won’t power the Galaxy flagship that you think.

According to the report (via Jukanlosreve), Samsung Foundry recently kicked off Exynos 2500 AP’s mass production using wafers at the Hwaseong S3 facility with 3nm process tech. The processor is expected to be featured in the Galaxy Z Flip 7 next year.

Last year, Samsung announced the Exynos 2500 will be made using a 3nm process node. It was anticipated to power the Galaxy S25 series. However, the low yield rate led the company to push the commercialization to the Z Flip 7.

This development could provide both expanded use of the chip, valuable mass production experience, and increased revenue. It could also serve as a stepping stone for the 2nm products scheduled for mass production next year.

Fabricating flagship SoCs usually takes about 5 to 6 months. That said, the timeframe aligns with the tentative Galaxy Z Flip 7 debut in July next year. The MX Division reportedly planned to ship 3.9 million units of the Z Flip 7 and Z Flip FE next year.

An industry insider stated, “This suggests that the MX division has concluded that the Exynos 2500’s performance is suitable for the new smartphone and has placed an order with the DS division.”

It’s a bold move by Samsung that could provide a lifeline to the Device Solutions Division. The company’s semiconductor business has been struggling in the recent past, particularly in the foundry and system LSI business units.

Although mass production of the AP has started, it is reported that yields are currently unstable, hovering around 20%. The lower yield rate harmed Samsung much as it left out winning clients for 3nm product manufacturing this year.