Samsung Exynos 2600 Flagship Chip Drops Integrated Modem for 2nm Power Boost

Samsung has officially launched its next-generation mobile processor, the Exynos 2600. This chip is the world’s first smartphone processor built on a 2-nanometer fabrication process. The announcement signals a major leap for mobile computing. It also reveals a fundamental design shift.

The Exynos 2600 breaks from tradition by removing the integrated 5G cellular modem. According to Reuters, this strategic move aims to boost performance and manage heat. The decision will impact future high-end Samsung smartphones.

External Modem Enables New Focus on Performance Cores

Previous Exynos chips, like the 2400, included a built-in modem. The new chip requires a separate, external cellular modem. Samsung will pair the Exynos 2600 with its new Shannon 5410 modem.

This external modem is reported to support 2G through 5G networks. It may also include direct satellite connectivity. Using a separate modem frees up physical space on the main chip.

That space is reallocated to other critical components. The CPU, GPU, and NPU can now utilize more transistors. This design choice aims for significant performance gains.

Heat Reduction and Market Implications of the New Design

The primary reason for this change is thermal management. Integrated modems generate considerable heat under load. Removing it allows for a cooler and more efficient chip overall.

Samsung also implemented a new Heat Path Block solution. This further improves heat dissipation. The goal is consistent performance during demanding tasks like gaming.

This shift mirrors Apple’s longstanding design philosophy. It marks a clear divergence from competitors like Qualcomm. Real-world testing will determine if Samsung’s gamble pays off in performance and battery life.

The new Samsung Exynos 2600 represents a bold architectural pivot. Its success hinges on balancing raw power with practical efficiency in upcoming devices like the Galaxy S26 series.

A quick knowledge drop for you

Which phones will use the Exynos 2600 chip?

The Samsung Galaxy S26 and Galaxy S26+ are expected to be the first devices powered by the new Exynos 2600 processor. This aligns with Samsung’s historical use of its own chips in certain flagship models.

Why remove the integrated modem?

Samsung removed it to reduce heat generation and free up space for more powerful CPU and GPU cores. This design allows for better thermal management and potentially higher sustained performance.

Will the Exynos 2600 perform better?

The combination of a 2nm process, new CPU cores, and the streamlined design aims for a major performance uplift. However, independent benchmarks are needed to confirm real-world gains over previous chips and rival products.

What modem will it use instead?

Reports indicate it will be paired with Samsung’s new external Shannon 5410 modem. This separate chip is expected to handle all cellular and satellite connectivity for the device.

Does this affect other connectivity like Wi-Fi?

Yes. The Exynos 2600 also lacks integrated Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. A separate connectivity chip, likely the S6568 with Wi-Fi 7, will be used in phones to handle these functions.