Samsung had considered using MediaTek Dimensity 9000 for the Galaxy S series

At the end of 2021, MediaTek introduced its flagship System on Chip (SoC), the Dimensity 9000, marking a bold reentry into the high-end market. This chip was not only the inaugural SoC to embrace the ARMv9 architecture but also the first to support LPDDR5X memory at 7500 MT/s. Over the past two years, the Dimensity 9000 has recaptured attention for MediaTek and carved out a significant market share.

Recently, insiders revealed that Samsung had indeed considered integrating the Dimensity 9000 into its Galaxy S series smartphones. However, due to MediaTek’s insufficient chip supply, the two companies were unable to finalize an agreement. Additionally, there has been a dismissal of recent rumors that Samsung plans to adopt MediaTek’s flagship SoCs for its high-end smartphones.

It is understood that when MediaTek first launched the Dimensity 9000, it did not produce an adequate quantity of chips, estimated at only 10 million units, while also needing to supply several clients. Given the annual shipment volume of the Galaxy S series is about three times that number, approximately 30 million, the deal ultimately fell through.

Previous reports have stated that Samsung’s orders accounted for 40% of Qualcomm’s revenue in the fourth quarter of 2023, making it the latter’s largest single customer. The two companies have become mutually dependent in their operations. Rumors suggest that the current third-generation Snapdragon 8 is priced at $200, which is already quite steep for Samsung, and this year’s fourth-generation Snapdragon 8 could be even more expensive, potentially prompting Samsung to consider alternatives, including accelerating the development of new Exynos chips or engaging other suppliers.

Although a collaboration on high-end models did not materialize, Samsung and MediaTek continue to maintain business relations, with MediaTek’s chips being utilized in products within the Galaxy A series.