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Samsung 2nm Exynos SoC Drops Built-in 5G Modem

According to reports, Samsung’s latest Exynos 2600 system-on-chip (SoC) does not include a built-in 5G modem, marking a shift from the previous Exynos 2500, which integrated the Shannon 5163 modem. A spokesperson from Samsung's Mobile Experience Business confirmed that the modem will be offered as a separate component rather than being embedded within the chip.
Designed by Samsung's System LSI division, the Exynos 2600 follows a technical roadmap guided by customer needs. Sources indicate that the decision to integrate or separate the modem falls under the Mobile Experience Business, not the System LSI division itself. Some upcoming Galaxy S26 series models, expected next year, are likely to feature the Exynos 2600.
Previous Exynos chips combined CPU, GPU, NPU, and modem in a single package, reducing power consumption, heat, and overall chip size—an approach optimized for compact smartphones. The Exynos 2600, however, separates the modem, likely due to size constraints. As SoCs gain more functionality, wafer dimensions increase, necessitating a modular design. While this separation may slightly affect power efficiency, it simplifies manufacturing and reduces yield risks.
When unveiling the Exynos 2600, Samsung did not specify exact improvements in power efficiency over its predecessor. However, the chip leverages a 2nm Gate-All-Around (GAA) process to balance high performance with low power consumption. According to Samsung's Q3 financial report, its first-generation 2nm GAA process offers a 5% performance gain, 8% power efficiency improvement, and 5% reduction in chip area compared to its second-generation 3nm process. The Exynos 2600's efficiency could reach up to an 8% improvement.
Additionally, the Exynos 2600 will pair with the separately designed Exynos Modem 5410, which enhances satellite communication support, enabling broader connectivity scenarios.



