I'm LongbridgeAI, I can summarize articles.Samsung and Qualcomm have stalled negotiations over a 2nm chip manufacturing deal due to pricing disagreements. Qualcomm seeks lower costs, while Samsung, bolstered by major clients like Tesla and Broadcom, is reluctant to accept low margins. The delay may push production to next year, complicating Samsung's efforts to regain Qualcomm as a key foundry customer amid a strategic shift away from price competition.
Samsung Electronics' (SSNLF) foundry division and Qualcomm (QCOM) have reportedly delayed a potential chip manufacturing deal. According to Korean media reports, the two companies remain divided over pricing rather than technical. Qualcomm is seeking lower prices, while Samsung is reportedly reluctant to accept lower-margin orders after securing other major customers, including Tesla (TSLA) and Broadcom (AVGO).
For context, Samsung is a global technology company and one of the world's largest semiconductor makers, with a key role in AI and data center infrastructure. Qualcomm is a U.S. semiconductor company known for its mobile processors, wireless technologies, and chips for connected devices, vehicles, and AI applications.
Qualcomm-Samsung 2nm Deal Could Slip to Next Year
Qualcomm's 2nm chip production with Samsung could be pushed to next year, making it harder for Samsung to win back the chipmaker as a major foundry customer. The talks have taken so long that starting production this year could be difficult, as chip output needs to match smartphone launch schedules.
The two companies could instead discuss using Samsung's 2nm process for Qualcomm's next-generation application processors. Qualcomm previously used Samsung to make its advanced application processors before 2021, and Samsung has been trying to win back the business.
The dispute points to a shift in Samsung's foundry strategy. The company once used lower prices to win new customers, but it now seems less willing to compete on cost after landing major clients. In July 2026, Samsung agreed to a five-year AI chip partnership with Broadcom worth more than $200 billion through 2030. The deal includes Samsung's advanced 2nm and smaller chipmaking processes, as well as advanced packaging technology. Additionally, the relatively small production volume under discussion gives Samsung less reason to offer a major price cut.
Samsung and Qualcomm did not immediately issue official statements on the delay.
Is QCOM Stock a Buy?
According to TipRanks, Qualcomm stock carries a Moderate Buy consensus rating based on nine Buys, 15 Holds, and two Sells assigned over the past three months. The average QCOM price target of $204.16 implies 15.42% upside from current levels.