What is the Exynos 2600? New features of the next-generation chip for the Galaxy S26 series

The "Exynos 2600" is rumored to be featured in the upcoming Galaxy S26 series. Latest leaks suggest it will boast top-tier specs for a smartphone chip, including single-core performance approaching that of the Apple M5, camera capabilities supporting up to 320MP, and power efficiency thanks to its 2nm process.

However, many readers often face a dilemma: "Should I wait for the Exynos 2600?" or "Is it more advantageous to buy a used Galaxy or another model now, prioritizing cost-effectiveness?" This article aims to clarify the features of the Exynos 2600 and its relationship with the Galaxy S26.

👉Should you wait for the Galaxy S26? Launching Feb 25, 2026! Price & Evolution Predictions [Complete Guide]

👉Should you wait for the Galaxy S26 Ultra, or is a used S25 Ultra a smarter choice now? Your complete guide to making a wise decision

What is Exynos 2600? An overview of the next-gen chip powering the Galaxy S26 generation

First, let's get a general idea of where the Exynos 2600 stands.

The Exynos 2600 is Samsung's flagship mobile AP (SoC), reportedly developed for the Galaxy S26 series. It is said to use a 2nm GAA (Gate-All-Around) manufacturing process, with mass production already reported, making it highly likely to be the world's first 2nm chip for smartphones.

The CPU is a 10-core configuration (1+3+6) using the latest Arm C1 generation cores. The GPU is rumored to be the "Xclipse 960," based on AMD's RDNA4 generation, expected to support advanced graphics processing such as ray tracing.

Of particular note is the ISP (Image Signal Processor). Leaks suggest it can process a single camera up to 320MP, or three 108MP cameras simultaneously, with significant enhancements in camera performance, including 8K60fps HDR10+ video, 4K120fps recording, and 14-bit RAW processing.

Of course, the current information is based solely on leaks and test units. Specifications may be adjusted closer to the official announcement of the Galaxy S26. Therefore, this article will treat these as "strong rumors as of November 2025" rather than "confirmed information," organizing them as reference material for readers making device choices.

Sources

Android Authority

Wccftech

Exynos 2600 Basic Specifications (2nm, 10 Cores, Xclipse 960)

The key points of the Exynos 2600 can be summarized as follows:

• Manufacturing process: 2nm GAA (among the world's first for smartphones)
  
  

• CPU: 10-core configuration (1+3+6). High-performance cores are said to reach approximately 4.2GHz.
  
  

• GPU: Xclipse 960 (AMD RDNA4 based, rumored to support ray tracing)
  
  

• ISP: Supports up to 320MP camera, simultaneous processing of 3x 108MP, 14-bit RAW, 8K60fps HDR10+, 4K120fps
  
  

• Power efficiency: Benchmarking results indicate significantly lower power consumption under multi-core load compared to same-generation Snapdragon and Apple A19 Pro chips.
  
  

Strong claims such as "world's best performance," "M5-class," and "single-core strongest" are circulating, primarily based on benchmark results like Geekbench 6.
However, actual user experience also depends on the overall strength of the device, including OS optimization, heat control, and power design. We will discuss "perceptible differences" and "how many generations back is still comfortable to use with a used phone" from this perspective later.

Relationship with the Galaxy S26 Series: Which models will it be in?

The Galaxy S26 series is expected to follow the usual pattern of "base," "Plus," and "Ultra" models. The following chip deployment patterns are currently the most likely rumors:

• Galaxy S26 / S26 Plus: Expected to adopt Exynos 2600 in most regions.
  
  

• Galaxy S26 Ultra: Likely to feature Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 globally.
  
  

• There are reports of tests being conducted to include the Exynos 2600 in the Ultra model in some regions, but the final configuration is still undecided.
  
  

The Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 is Qualcomm's next-generation flagship SoC, competing in the high-end segment alongside the Apple A19 Pro and Exynos 2600.

From a user's perspective, whether you get an Exynos or Snapdragon version might depend on "which market you purchase from" and "whether it's a carrier-locked or SIM-free version." The configuration for the Japanese market is still unclear, but in any case, the S26 generation is likely to be a generation where "chip lottery" becomes a common topic.

Exynos 2600 by the numbers: How much will M5-class single-core performance affect user experience?

The most talked-about aspect of the Exynos 2600 is the rumor of "Apple M5-class single-core performance." This comes from leaked Geekbench 6 scores, showing approximately 4,200 points in single-core and 13,000 points in multi-core performance.

These scores are among the highest ever for a smartphone chip, approaching the level of the Apple M5, which is designed for tablets and laptops. However, when considering actual usability, it's important to take a realistic view: "Is such a high number truly necessary?"

Geekbench scores compared to other chips

Based on leaked Geekbench 6 scores, a rough comparison with other chips is as follows (these are reference values only):

*These are approximate figures based on leaked Geekbench 6 values.

Three key points can be drawn from this table:

• Single-core performance of the Exynos 2600 is said to rival that of the M5.
  
  

• In multi-core performance, it matches or even surpasses the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 and A19 Pro in some aspects.
  
  

• Thanks to the 2nm process, it is highly likely to achieve lower power consumption even with comparable performance.
  
  

However, these are all results from prototype devices and reference boards. In mass-produced devices, clocks may be throttled due to heat, battery, and casing design considerations, potentially causing scores to fluctuate.

Perceptible Differences in Daily Use: How much of a "difference" will there be?

So, what aspects will users actually notice?

• Social media and browsing
  → Already comfortable with S23/S24 generations, so the perceptible difference with Exynos 2600 is expected to be small.
  
  

• Light gaming and video viewing
  → Loading times and app switching will be even snappier, but it's more about "increased headroom" than a "dramatic difference."
  
  

• Demanding 3D games and titles like Genshin Impact
  → More likely to see benefits in stable frame rates and reduced temperature increase when playing with high graphics settings.
  
  

• Long-term use (3-5 year span)
  → The more overhead the SoC has, the easier it is to maintain comfort even after future OS updates.
  
  

In other words, for users who "keep the same phone for 3+ years" or "heavily engage in demanding games and video editing," the Exynos 2600's performance offers long-term reassurance. Conversely, for light users or those primarily using social media, current to one-generation-old high-end or mid-range phones are still perfectly practical. This is the point that distinguishes "waiting for the latest" from "prioritizing cost-effectiveness with a used phone."

How will the camera change? The shooting experience brought by the Exynos 2600's 320MP-compatible ISP

One of the most impactful aspects of the Exynos 2600 is its camera capabilities. Leaked information indicates that the ISP will have the following specifications:

• Support for up to 320MP single sensor
  
  

• Simultaneous processing of three 108MP sensors (triple camera configuration)
  
  

• 14-bit RAW processing, 5-frame HDR compositing
  
  

• Continuous shooting of 108MP RAW at up to 30fps
  
  

• 8K 60fps HDR10+, 4K 120fps video recording
  
  

While these numbers may seem like overkill, the actual significance lies in the "improvement of not only image quality but also camera responsiveness and continuous shooting performance."

What 320MP and 8K60fps imply

Although it supports 320MP, it's a separate matter whether a 320MP sensor will actually be installed. However, the fact that the ISP has the processing power for it suggests the following benefits at the product level:

• More headroom for crop zoom and night photography processing with high-resolution sensors (e.g., 200MP class).
  
  

• Less processing lag even when using multiple cameras simultaneously (wide-angle + telephoto + ultra-wide).
  
  

• UI and other processing remain smooth even during high-bitrate video recording.
  
  

Especially for moments you don't want to miss, such as capturing children or pets, or at live concerts, festivals, or sporting events, the potential to continuously shoot 108MP RAW at 30fps is a significant advantage. In actual products, there's a possibility that pixel count and frame rate might be reduced to improve yield and autofocus accuracy.

How everyday photos and videos will become more comfortable

For most users, what matters more than "spec numbers" is the "success rate of a spontaneous shot."

With the Exynos 2600 generation of Galaxy phones, you can expect the following improvements in experience:

• Faster response from camera launch to shutter press.
  
  

• Reduced processing wait times for continuous shooting and portrait mode.
  
  

• Photos taken indoors or at night are likely to retain more detail while suppressing noise.
  
  

• More natural electronic image stabilization and HDR processing during video recording.
  
  

However, these improvements are less about "sudden dramatic changes due to Exynos 2600" and more about the gradual accumulation of evolution from S24 to S25 to S26, with the SoC's increased headroom further stabilizing the experience.

In that sense, current Galaxy S23/S24 models already offer "sufficiently high image quality," and for camera-focused users, a used model from 1-2 generations back offers excellent value for money. When considering a used Galaxy, it's recommended to first decide on your budget, desired size, and whether you need a telephoto lens, then check the price differences between generations.

PRODIG offers a wide range of used Android smartphones, including Galaxy models, making it easier to meet the needs of those who "don't need the absolute latest, but value camera performance."

See PRODIG's list of used Galaxy phones here:
https://prodig-shop.com/collections/galaxy

See PRODIG's list of used Android phones here:
https://prodig-shop.com/collections/android

Will heat generation and battery life improve? The aim of 2nm GAA and new cooling design

Image suggestion: An illustrative image showing a heat map and battery icon side-by-side.

"Heat generation" and "battery life" are persistent challenges for high-end SoCs. With the Exynos 2600, in addition to the 2nm GAA process, the adoption of a new thermal management technology called "Heat Pass Block (HPB)" has been reported.

Leaks suggest that while the Exynos 2600's multi-core performance improves, some test results show nearly 60% lower power consumption compared to the Apple A19 Pro. This indicates that "balancing performance and power efficiency" is a major focus.

Improvements from the Exynos 2400

With the Exynos 2400 generation, some models received critical feedback regarding heat generation and power efficiency. The Exynos 2600 is expected to incorporate the following improvements based on those lessons learned:

• 2nm GAA to increase transistor density while reducing leakage current.
  
  

• Even with a 10-core configuration, the performance and efficiency balance of the efficiency cores will be tuned.
  
  

• ISP and NPU processing pipelines will be revised for a design that can handle the same tasks with lower power.
  
  

These improvements are expected to mitigate issues like "fast benchmark speeds but early thermal throttling in real devices."
However, final heat generation and battery life depend on the device's cooling structure (e.g., vapor chambers, graphite sheets) and the manufacturer's software tuning, so it's not guaranteed that "Exynos 2600 will always run cool."

Long-term benefits (battery degradation, OS support)

The 2nm generation SoCs are expected to offer the following long-term benefits due to improved power efficiency:

• Even with the same usage, battery charge/discharge cycles are reduced, potentially slowing down battery degradation.
  
  

• With ample SoC performance headroom, the device is more resilient to future OS updates and feature additions, potentially extending its practical lifespan.
  
  

• Reduced heat generation lowers stress on internal components, which can positively impact overall longevity.
  
  

However, extreme expectations like "Exynos 2600 will last for 10 years" should be avoided. In reality, a smartphone's lifespan is determined by various factors such as battery, storage, and physical damage to the casing.

When choosing a used Galaxy or Android device, it's crucial to comprehensively check not only the "SoC generation" but also "battery condition," "exterior condition," and "remaining OS update years." PRODIG ensures "operational peace of mind" regardless of the exterior grade by clearly stating maximum battery capacity and verified operation, backed by quality inspections and long-term warranties for used phones.

Should you wait for the Galaxy S26 with Exynos 2600, or is a used phone sufficient now?

Now, we'll delve into the actual decision many readers are likely pondering: "Should I wait for the S26, or buy a used phone now?"

In conclusion, there aren't many cases where "definitely waiting until launch" is necessary solely for the Exynos 2600 itself. However, if you're looking for long-term use of 3-4 years or more, or want to pursue the cutting edge for camera and gaming, then waiting for the S26 generation might be worthwhile.

Those who should wait for the latest Galaxy with Exynos 2600

The Exynos 2600 generation Galaxy S26 (especially the base and Plus models) will be attractive to users who:

• Want to use one device as their main phone for 3-4 years or longer.
  
  

• Prioritize camera performance, including night shots, videos, and high-resolution photography.
  
  

• Want to play demanding 3D games like Genshin Impact at high settings for extended periods.
  
  

• Are eager to try AI features (generative AI, camera AI corrections, etc.) as soon as they're available.
  
  

• Are drawn to the romance of "world-class performance" in numbers.
  
  

If you have these needs, models equipped with the latest generation SoCs like the Exynos 2600 or Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 can potentially increase your long-term satisfaction.

On the other hand, a brand-new flagship upon release comes with a high price tag and takes time to depreciate. Aiming for the S26 generation when it starts appearing in the used market 1-2 years after launch can also be a smart strategy. By then, actual heat generation and bug reports will also be available, allowing you to determine if it's a "good year" before making a purchase.

For these people, a used Galaxy or Android phone now is sufficient

Conversely, in the following cases, it is more reasonable to opt for a used phone from the current or previous generation, prioritizing cost-effectiveness, rather than waiting for an Exynos 2600-equipped device:

• Primary uses are social media, video viewing, browsing, with the camera mainly for casual snapshots.
  
  

• Gaming is light or played only occasionally.
  
  

• Budget is around 30,000-60,000 yen, aiming for a previous-generation high-end or mid-range phone.
  
  

• You tend to upgrade your phone every 2-3 years.
  
  

For this segment, the S22/S23/S24 generations, or flagship/mid-range models from other manufacturers, are perfectly adequate.

PRODIG carries not only Galaxy phones but also Android devices from various manufacturers like Pixel, Xperia, and Xiaomi. Therefore, if "price and usability are prioritized over the chip," it's best to choose based on your budget and intended use.

See PRODIG's list of used smartphones here:
https://prodig-shop.com/collections/

Intelligently upgrading to the Exynos 2600 generation with trade-in, rental, or corporate introduction

Image suggestion: A scene at a store counter discussing smartphone trade-in and new device purchase.

When the Exynos 2600 generation Galaxy S26 arrives, it's also important to consider "how to upgrade while keeping the total cost down." Here, we'll introduce smart options using PRODIG's in-store trade-in, rental, and corporate services.

Monetize your current smartphone with in-store trade-in

When buying a new device, letting your old smartphone sit unused is a wasteful choice. PRODIG offers in-store trade-in at its Akihabara store, where staff familiar with the used smartphone market will provide a fair assessment.

• Get your current iPhone or Android assessed in-store → Get cash.
  
  

• Use the funds for purchases in online stores.
  
  

• Upgrade to an Exynos 2600 generation or previous-generation flagship while reducing the effective cost.
  
  

If you're thinking, "First, I want to clear out one of my current devices and then consider my next option," understanding the general process at a buyback site can make things smoother.

PRODIG Buyback Site here
https://prodig-kaitori.com/

*Currently, PRODIG buybacks are only available for in-store transactions. They do not offer mail-in buybacks or online appraisals, so be cautious of any information suggesting otherwise.

If you want to temporarily try the latest Galaxy, renting is an option.

If you're hesitant to immediately buy a Galaxy S26 with Exynos 2600, or if you only need a high-performance camera for an event or business trip, renting is a viable alternative to purchasing.

PRODIG Rental offers not only iPhones and iPads but also devices tailored to your specific needs for a limited period. Since it comes with a warranty, you can use it with peace of mind for short-term use, testing, or corporate events.

PRODIG Rental Site here
https://prodig-rental.com/

If you plan to introduce Galaxy as a business device, use the corporate inquiry desk.

If you want to collectively introduce Galaxy or Android devices, including the Exynos 2600 generation, as business terminals, utilizing the corporate inquiry desk is recommended.

• Proposals and estimates for multiple units.
  
  

• Consultation on kitting and initial setup.
  
  

• Proposals that include post-introduction operational strategies.
  
  

In this way, you can receive support that goes beyond mere "device sales" and considers the entire operational process.

PRODIG Corporate Inquiry Desk here
https://prodig-shop.com/pages/b2b-reception

Frequently Asked Questions about Exynos 2600 (FAQ)

Image suggestion: An illustrated image with speech bubbles in a Q&A format.

Finally, we've organized common questions about Exynos 2600 and the Galaxy S26 generation into a Q&A format.

Will the Exynos 2600 be included in the Japanese version of Galaxy?

As of now (November 2025), it has not been confirmed whether the Exynos 2600 will be included in the Japanese version of the Galaxy S26 series.

In the past, there were generations where both Exynos and Snapdragon versions coexisted in the global market, but only Snapdragon was available in the Japanese market. With the S26 generation, it's possible that the chip configuration could vary by region or model.

Therefore, if you "absolutely want the Exynos 2600 version," you will need to check the specifications of the Japanese model after the official announcement or carefully follow information on overseas versions. However, if you import an overseas version personally, it's essential to check for technical conformity, supported bands, and warranty availability at your own risk.

When will Exynos 2600-equipped Galaxy phones appear on the used market?

The Galaxy S26 series is expected to launch in early to spring 2026. Therefore, S26 generation devices are likely to start appearing in the used market in earnest at least six months to a year after launch, meaning from late 2026 to 2027 onwards.

Immediately after launch, new prices are high, and devices will gradually circulate as some users with rapid upgrade cycles sell them. If you want to smartly aim for a used device, it's realistic to consider it "after the market price has stabilized about a year after release."

When buying used, should I choose the Exynos version or the Snapdragon version?

Both the Exynos and Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 versions of the Exynos 2600 generation are expected to be high-performance and power-efficient.

Here are some points to consider when choosing a used device:

• Primarily for daily use, light gaming → Unlikely to notice a significant difference between the two.
  
  

• Playing heavy 3D games for long periods → Check reviews on actual heat generation and battery life before choosing.
  
  

• Camera priority → Camera configuration (sensor, lens) and software tuning are more important than chip differences.
  
  

Furthermore, when purchasing in Japan, it's more important to prioritize "technical conformity, warranty availability, and supported bands" than whether it's an Exynos or Snapdragon version. When purchasing from a domestic vendor like PRODIG, the devices are generally suitable for domestic use, making it a more secure choice than personal import.

Finally

Image suggestion: Galaxy and other used smartphones lined up, illustrating "safe, affordable, practical."

With its 2nm process, 10-core CPU, Xclipse 960 GPU, and 320MP-capable ISP, the Exynos 2600 is an incredibly ambitious chip, and it's no exaggeration to call its specs "world-class." Benchmarks have even reported single-core performance comparable to Apple M5, so there's no doubt the Galaxy S26 generation will attract significant attention.

However, for many users, what matters most isn't "whether it's an Exynos 2600" itself, but rather "which generation and price range of device offers the best cost performance and peace of mind for their current usage."

• Want to use one device for a long time, fully utilize games and camera → Latest flagship, including the Exynos 2600 generation.
  
  

• Want to maintain comfort while keeping budget low → Used high-end from 1-2 generations ago, or a well-balanced mid-range.
  
  

• Want to try it out for a short period or considering business introduction → Utilize rental services or corporate inquiry desks.
  
  

It's important to choose by working backward from your own style.

PRODIG online store offers a system that achieves "safety, affordability, and practicality," including over 30 quality inspection points, up to a 180-day warranty, and same-day shipping for orders placed by 2 PM on weekdays.

When considering your next device, while checking information on the latest chips like the Exynos 2600, be sure to compare the actual stock, prices, and condition ranks on PRODIG's collection page.

PRODIG Used Smartphone List here
https://prodig-shop.com/collections/

PRODIG Used Android List here
https://prodig-shop.com/collections/android

Compare multiple options like Galaxy, Pixel, and iPhone side-by-side to find "the perfect device for you."