Samsung’s 2025 foldable phones may see a significant shift in processing power. Reports suggest the company is planning to integrate its in-house Exynos chips into at least one of its upcoming foldable devices, marking a departure from its traditional reliance on Qualcomm Snapdragon processors.
Traditionally, Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold and Flip series have utilized Qualcomm’s flagship Snapdragon chips. The current Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Flip 6, for instance, are powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. Following this pattern, the 2025 Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Flip 7 were expected to feature the Snapdragon 8 Elite, the same chip anticipated for the Galaxy S25 lineup.
A person using the open Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6.A user interacting with the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6.
However, according to South Korean publication Chosun Ilbo, the Galaxy Z Flip 7 will reportedly feature the Samsung Exynos 2500. This contradicts earlier rumors suggesting the inclusion of the older Exynos 2400. Chosun Ilbo cites a senior Samsung official who confirmed this development, attributing the change to Samsung’s success in stabilizing the 3nm chip manufacturing process.
Expanding the Foldable Lineup
The Chosun Ilbo report specifically mentions “premium models in the Z Flip series,” hinting at the possibility of multiple Galaxy Z Flip models in 2025. This aligns with previous rumors suggesting an expanded foldable lineup, potentially including a more budget-friendly Galaxy Z Flip FE and possibly a higher-end tri-folding Galaxy Z Fold variant. Earlier speculations indicated the Galaxy Z Flip FE might incorporate the slightly older Exynos 2400e, the same chip found in the Galaxy S24 FE. As for the Galaxy Z Fold 7, Samsung is expected to continue using Qualcomm as its chip supplier.
Analyzing the Report
Android Authority acknowledges the possibility of nuances lost in translation from the original Chosun Ilbo report. However, they also note the report’s confidence and clarity in its claim. Considering the publication’s reputation and track record, Android Authority gives the report cautious credibility.
Historically, Samsung has employed Qualcomm chips in its premium devices, especially those sold in the U.S. market, while reserving in-house Exynos chips for other regions. This potential shift represents a notable change in strategy for Samsung’s foldable lineup.
The Impact of the Exynos 2500
The ultimate success of this transition will depend on the performance of the Exynos 2500 in real-world usage. Until the devices are released and thoroughly tested, the impact of this change remains to be seen.
The potential release schedule suggests a Galaxy Z Flip FE launch as early as spring 2025, with the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Flip 7 expected to be announced the following summer. Only then will we have a clearer picture of Samsung’s foldable future and the performance of its in-house chips in this competitive market.
