- Samsung Galaxy S26 leak reveals a mix of Exynos and Snapdragon chips.
- Exynos 2600 may power the S26 Pro and S26 Plus models.
- Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 likely for S26 Edge and S26 Ultra.
- All U.S. and China models may still get Snapdragon processors.
A new report suggests that Samsung’s upcoming Galaxy S26 series could once again divide its processors between Exynos and Snapdragon chips. The leak, spotted by SamMobile, points to a familiar strategy from Samsung, one that may depend on where you buy your phone.
Different Processors for Different Models
According to the latest information, Samsung plans to use its in-house Exynos 2600 chip in the Galaxy S26 Pro and Galaxy S26 Plus models. The higher-end Galaxy S26 Edge and Galaxy S26 Ultra, meanwhile, are expected to run on Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor.
That mix of chipsets could mean very different performance levels across models and regions. However, SamMobile’s report also claims that Samsung might use Snapdragon chips in all S26 units sold in the United States and China. This regional split is not new for Samsung, which has shifted strategies several times in recent years depending on chip performance and supply chain needs.
Samsung Balances Performance and Cost
The move to keep using Exynos chips is not just about technology. It is also a financial decision. Producing its own processors saves Samsung a significant amount of money. Yet performance comparisons have long sparked debate. Exynos chips often trail behind Snapdragon processors in efficiency, graphics power, and thermal control.
This has led many users to favor Snapdragon-based Galaxy phones. If this pattern continues with the Galaxy S26, Samsung may again face questions about whether Exynos-powered phones deliver the same flagship experience.
Still, the company’s efforts to improve its in-house silicon are ongoing. The Exynos 2600 is rumored to bring major AI-focused upgrades and better energy management. If these reports are accurate, Samsung could be closing the performance gap with Qualcomm’s top-tier chips.
Galaxy S26 Plus Rumors Take a Twist
The leak also reveals that the Galaxy S26 Plus is still part of Samsung’s upcoming lineup, despite earlier reports that it had been cancelled. Some sources previously claimed that Samsung would replace the Plus model with a new Edge variant. However, newer leaks suggest that both models are now back in production.
This could give buyers more choices when the series launches. The Galaxy S26 Pro would likely remain the most affordable model. The Plus and Edge versions may target users who want more features without paying Ultra-level prices.
The Galaxy S26 Pro: A New Name for a Familiar Model
One interesting change could be the naming convention. Samsung may rename the base model from “Galaxy S26” to “Galaxy S26 Pro.” Despite the new name, it will still serve as the entry-level option in the S26 lineup.
The renaming appears to be a branding move aimed at making the series sound more premium across the board. Samsung has followed similar strategies before, aligning its phone names with high-end branding trends seen across the tech industry.
A Return to Normal After Exynos 2500 Delays
Earlier this year, Samsung launched the Galaxy S25 lineup with only Snapdragon chips. That decision was largely due to production issues with the Exynos 2500, which was delayed and later used in the Galaxy Z Flip 7.
With those problems apparently resolved, Samsung seems ready to bring Exynos back to its flagship phones. The upcoming Exynos 2600 is expected to play a major role in that comeback.
Looking Ahead to 2026
Samsung usually unveils its Galaxy S series early in the year. If the company sticks to its schedule, the Galaxy S26 phones could debut in January 2026. Four models are currently expected: the Galaxy S26 Pro, S26 Plus, S26 Edge, and S26 Ultra.
Leaks also suggest a design refresh for the Ultra version, with a sleeker and more curved frame inspired by recent iPhone aesthetics. The S26 Ultra may also receive a significant camera upgrade and possibly multiple AI assistants designed to enhance photo editing, productivity, and customization.
While many details remain unconfirmed, the mix of Exynos and Snapdragon chips is shaping up to be one of the biggest talking points for Samsung’s next-generation phones. Fans and tech reviewers alike will be watching closely to see how the new Exynos processor stacks up in real-world performance once the Galaxy S26 series hits the market.
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