Qualcomm is reportedly planning a dual-variant rollout of its next-generation Snapdragon Elite 2 SoC—one using TSMC’s 3 nm process and another high-end “for Galaxy” version manufactured on Samsung Foundry’s 2 nm node. Tagged internally as project “Kaanapali,” this marks a significant shift in the Snapdragon‑for‑Galaxy chip strategy.
What Is the “Kaanapali” Project?
According to industry insider Jukan Choi, Qualcomm has codenamed its Snapdragon Elite 2 chip “Kaanapali,” referencing the Hawaiian resort—signifying a split in the lineup. The standard Elite 2 will use TSMC’s mature 3 nm node. However, a special “Kaanapali S” variant, produced by Samsung at its advanced 2 nm node, is planned specifically for the Samsung Galaxy S26 series.
Why Two Variants?
- Performance leadership: Samsung’s 2 nm process can provide better energy efficiency and clock speed margins.
- Deeper hardware-software integration: Samsung customizing the chip can optimize One UI features.
- Supply security and pricing: Diversifies production amid rising TSMC costs and demand issues.
What Samsung and Qualcomm Stand to Gain
Historically, Samsung’s “for Galaxy” chips have offered slightly increased clock speeds, such as the Snapdragon 8 Elite in S25 models hitting 4.47 GHz vs. 4.32 GHz standard. But the 2 nm version could bring more meaningful benefits:
- 🔋 Improved battery life and thermal performance
- ⚙️ Enhanced performance-per-watt
- 🧠 Potential AI and ISP enhancements deeply packaged with One UI
How It Impacts Galaxy S26 Buyers
Samsung’s Galaxy S26 lineup might come with two Snapdragon Elite 2 options:
- Global version: Snapdragon Elite 2 on TSMC 3 nm
- Premium version: Snapdragon Elite 2 “S” on Samsung 2 nm
Users in key markets—especially the US and Korea—could see the “2 nm” variant offering improved battery life, thermals, and faster AI tasks.
TSMC vs Samsung: 3 nm vs 2 nm Node Comparison
TSMC’s 3 nm process continues to be Qualcomm’s go-to for volume production. However, Samsung Foundry’s move to 2 nm is seen as more ambitious. The smaller node could lead to ~10–15% performance-per-watt gains, though early yields are crucial.
More on the tech: Qualcomm Newsroom | Samsung Foundry 2nm Process
Risks and Considerations
- Yield challenges: Samsung’s 2 nm may face early defects, limiting supply.
- Regional rollout: 2 nm Elite 2 “S” might stay limited to select markets initially.
- Pricing: Samsung’s node may increase costs, possibly affecting the phone’s MSRP.
What It Means for Qualcomm and Samsung
This marks Qualcomm’s deepest-ever reliance on Samsung Foundry, potentially signaling a strategic move to balance TSMC dependency. A dual-sourced Elite 2 also lets Qualcomm hedge supply and price risks ahead of rising demand for AI-enabled mobile chips.
The collaboration aligns with broader trends in the semiconductor industry where chipmakers are diversifying beyond single-foundry dependencies.
Conclusion
By planning a dual-variant strategy for the Snapdragon Elite 2, Qualcomm is preparing for Galaxy S26 to possibly lead with a 2 nm “S” version, giving Samsung an edge in flagship performance. Global users may receive the standard 3 nm version, setting a new benchmark for performance choices.
Stay informed on chip tech with Galaxy S26 Rumors and TSMC vs Samsung Node Comparison.
