Samsung's 2nm Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 Reportedly Canceled by Qualcomm

For those keeping an eye on the smartphone world, the battle for the fastest chips is always a hot topic. Recent whispers suggested a surprising twist: Samsung might produce a 2nm version of Qualcomm’s upcoming flagship chip, the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 2. This version was rumored to be even more cutting-edge than the 3nm variant destined for most Android flagships, potentially making its way into some regional versions of Samsung’s own Galaxy S26 series.

Qualcomm may have canceled Samsung’s 2nm Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 project

However, it seems those plans might have hit a snag. According to a recent report from the reliable tipster @Jukanlosreve on X/Twitter, Qualcomm has canceled Samsung’s manufacturing plan of the 2nm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 2 chip. This variant is now completely missing from the current specifications. The move indicates a discontinuation of the project.

Previously, Qualcomm’s internal listings for the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 2 (base model number SM8850) SoC showed two distinct variants based on their manufacturer. There was the 3nm version from TSMC (labeled 8850-T) and the one built on 2nm tech from Samsung (labeled 8850-S). That distinction has now vanished, leaving only the base SM8850 model, presumably referring to the TSMC-made 3nm chip.

This development means that for now, the vast majority of Android flagship phones will likely rely on the TSMC-produced 3nm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 2, starting in late 2025. There are no details about the potential reasons that led Qualcomm to close the door on the project. For now, anything we can think of in this regard is mere speculation.

Snapdragon 8s Gen 5 specs under review; Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 prototype now pricier

There is more interesting—and related—chip news from the same source. Apparently, the price for the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 2 (SM8850) prototype has increased. It now costs a substantial $15,000 for those companies interested in getting it. Additionally, the specifications for a future chip, model number SM8845 (potentially the Snapdragon 8s Gen 5), are apparently being “reorganized.” However, further details on that are scarce. This will be Qualcomm’s next-gen affordable flagship SoC.

A 2nm chip from Samsung for the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 2 would have undoubtedly been a hot topic. Sadly, it seems some stage of the process fell through. For now, the 3nm variant from TSMC remains the standard bearer for the next generation of Android powerhouses.