Samsung Electronics' global mobile application processor (AP) market share rose to 9% in the second quarter, up from 7% in the previous quarter and 5% in the fourth quarter of last year, according to Counterpoint Research data released on the 10th. The rebound has been attributed largely to the Exynos 2600, which powers the Galaxy S26 series and delivers up to 39% higher CPU compute performance and a 113% improvement in generative AI capabilities versus its predecessor. Stabilized yields from Samsung Foundry's 2-nanometer gate-all-around (GAA) process have supported chip quality and performance. The Exynos 1680 and Exynos 1480 also contributed to shipment growth in Samsung's mid-range Galaxy models. Attention is shifting to the Exynos 2700 and whether it will be adopted across the Galaxy S27 lineup, which Samsung plans to expand from three models to four with a new Pro version. Rising memory semiconductor prices are increasing cost pressure on Samsung's Mobile eXperience (MX) division and strengthening the incentive to use internally developed APs. Broader Exynos adoption could reduce reliance on external suppliers, but analysts say sustained performance and power-efficiency improvements are needed to challenge Qualcomm's dominant position and MediaTek's strength in the mid-to-low-end segment. The Galaxy S27's model segmentation and the 2-nanometer process's production yields will be important factors in determining whether the recent share gains continue.