Samsung, Qualcomm 2nm Chip Deal Delayed Over Pricing

Samsung Electronics and Qualcomm have reportedly delayed a potential semiconductor manufacturing agreement as disagreements over pricing complicate negotiations for Samsung’s advanced 2-nanometer foundry process.

According to The Bell, the delay could push production into next year, creating uncertainty over whether Samsung can secure Qualcomm as a major foundry customer. The setback comes even as Samsung’s 2nm technology appears to have addressed earlier performance and production yield concerns that had prevented deeper cooperation between the companies.

Technical issues are reportedly not the main obstacle. Qualcomm has responded positively to Samsung’s latest 2nm process, while Samsung’s Exynos 2600 and upcoming Exynos 2700 processors, which also use 2nm technology, have received favorable performance evaluations.

Instead, pricing has emerged as the key sticking point. Qualcomm is reportedly seeking lower manufacturing costs, while Samsung is reluctant to offer substantial discounts. With negotiations continuing, producing Qualcomm application processors within 2026 is becoming increasingly difficult because semiconductor manufacturing timelines must align with upcoming smartphone launches.

The companies may now shift negotiations toward Qualcomm’s next-generation application processors, according to the report.

The pricing dispute also signals a broader change in Samsung Foundry’s business strategy. Samsung previously sought to expand its customer base by accepting lower-priced manufacturing contracts. However, the company appears increasingly unwilling to compete primarily on price after securing major strategic customers, including Tesla and Broadcom.

The relatively small production volume being discussed with Qualcomm also gives Samsung less incentive to make significant pricing concessions.

A Samsung Electronics official cited by The Bell reportedly acknowledged that the prolonged negotiations had made Qualcomm processor production within this year difficult, adding that discussions involving next-generation products were already under consideration.

The official also said Samsung has moved away from the aggressive low-price bidding strategy it previously used to attract foundry customers.

Neither Samsung Electronics nor Qualcomm immediately responded to requests for comment.