Galaxy S26 Series to Feature Micron DRAM in Significant Numbers
Samsung’s upcoming Galaxy S26 series is set to include DRAM chips from Micron in roughly half of its units, marking a notable shift in the memory sourcing strategy for the flagship lineup. Despite Samsung’s reputation as a dominant memory manufacturer, the mobile division has opted to incorporate Micron’s LPDDR5X memory alongside its own, reflecting evolving supply and pricing dynamics within the industry.
Details on Memory Supply and Pricing Dynamics
According to reports from Dealsite, Samsung’s MX division, responsible for its mobile devices, has allocated about 50 percent of the initial Galaxy S26 production batches to use Micron’s LPDDR5X DRAM instead of Samsung’s own chips produced by its Device Solutions (DS) division. This decision comes amid Samsung DS’s recent move to prioritise sales of its mobile DRAM to Apple, accompanied by a substantial price increase of around 100 percent. Furthermore, Samsung DS appears unwilling to offer significant discounts to Samsung MX, prompting the mobile division to diversify its DRAM supply to manage costs effectively.
While the initial batches reflect a roughly equal split between Samsung and Micron DRAM, production volumes beyond these early units remain undecided, meaning no single supplier currently holds a dominant position in the Galaxy S26 memory supply chain.
Context and Comparison with Previous Generations
This is not the first time Samsung has turned to Micron for DRAM in its flagship smartphones. The Galaxy S25 series initially relied exclusively on Micron’s DRAM, as their products were considered superior to Samsung’s at that time. However, Samsung’s DS division quickly enhanced its quality and production yields, enabling a shift to a 60/40 split favouring Samsung-manufactured DRAM in the later stages of the S25 production cycle.
The current scenario is markedly different due to the significant increase in memory pricing power across the industry. TrendForce recently highlighted that memory costs, which traditionally accounted for 10 to 15 percent of a smartphone’s bill of materials (BOM), have surged to represent between 30 and 40 percent, edging closer to half of the total cost. This shift has undoubtedly influenced Samsung’s decision to balance its DRAM sourcing between internal and external suppliers.
What to Expect Moving Forward
Samsung’s approach to DRAM sourcing for the Galaxy S26 series underscores the complex interplay between supply chain management and cost control in today’s smartphone market. As production progresses, it will be interesting to see how the balance between Samsung and Micron DRAM evolves and whether this strategy will impact the Galaxy S26’s performance or pricing. Consumers and industry watchers alike should keep an eye on further announcements regarding production volumes and supplier shares as the launch date approaches.