Samsung’s Exynos chipsets have historically been less powerful than Qualcomm’s Snapdragon chipsets. The latter has always dominated key aspects, including CPU, GPU, and connectivity. However, the newly-released Exynos 2600 narrows the gap significantly. In fact, it outperforms the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 on several benchmarks.

In this detailed comparison, we’ll make sense of the benchmark scores and dive into the key differences to understand how the Exynos 2600 and Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 stack up against each other.

Let’s begin with a quick look at the spec sheet:

	Exynos 2600	Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5
Announced	December 2025	September 2025
Process node	2nm (TSMC)	3nm (TSMC)
CPU cores	10-core	8-core
CPU cores	1 x 3.8GHz — C1-Ultra 3 x 3.25GHz — C1-Pro 6 x 2.75GHz — C1-Pro	2 x 4.61GHz — Oryon (3rd gen) 6 x 3.63GHz — Oryon (3rd gen)
GPU	Exynos Xclipse 960 GPU Ray tracing support Exynos Neural Super Sampling	Adreno 840 Ray tracing support Snapdragon Elite Gaming features
NPU	AI engine with 32K MAC NPU	Qualcomm Hexagon NPU Agentic AI support
Memory	LPDDR5X	LPDDR5X, up to 5.3 GHz
Storage	UFS 4.1	UFS 4.1
Camera	up to 320MP single camera up to 108MP single camera (30fps) up to 64MP+32MP dual cameras (30fps) up to 8K video recording real-time semantic segmentation	Qualcomm Spectra Triple ISP (20-bit) up to 320MP single camera up to 108MP single camera (MFNR, ZSL, 30fps) up to 48MP triple camera (MFNR, ZSL, 30fps) up to 8K video recording real-time semantic segmentation (limitless) Advanced Professional Video (APV) codec
Connectivity	Exynos 5410 modem download speed: 14.79Gbps (maximum) upload speed: 4.9Gbps (maximum) Wi-Fi 7 Bluetooth 6.0	Snapdragon X85 5G modem download speed: 12.5Gbps (peak) upload speed: 3.7Gbps (peak) Wi-Fi 7 (peak speed: 5.8Gbps) Bluetooth 6.0

Exynos 2600 vs Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5: Benchmark scores

Since the Galaxy S26 trio has yet to reach Gizmochina’s house, we used NL Tech’s benchmark data. The Galaxy S26+ (Exynos 2600) and Galaxy S26 Ultra (Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5) were used in the testing.

Geekbench score (v6)

	Exynos 2600	Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5
Single core	3,126	3,690
Multi core	10,684	11,148

On Geekbench, the Exynos 2600 posts lower scores than the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5. In the single-core test, the Snapdragon gets about 18% higher score, while the difference in multi-core scores is just 4%.

AnTuTu score (v11)

	Exynos 2600	Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5
AnTuTu score	2,663,898	3,396,880
CPU	788,803	1,014,266
GPU	1,091,141	1,388,476
Memory	359,328	346,871
UX	424,626	647,267

The Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 shines on AnTuTu too, posting a total score close to 3.4 million (vs. 2.66 million on Exynos 2600). That 27% uplift in total score for the Snapdragon chip is also reflected in the CPU and GPU scores.

The Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 also achieves a significantly higher score in the memory test, while the Exynos 2600 scores 3% higher in the user experience test.

3DMark score

Wild Life Extreme Stress Test

	Exynos 2600	Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5
Best loop score	7,077	7,084
Lowest loop score	2,988	3,067
Stability	42.2%	43.3%

Benchmark results from the 3DMark Wild Life Extreme Stress Test show that the Dimensity 2600 performs on par with the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5. There isn’t a big gap in stability either.

Solar Bay Extreme Stress Test

	Exynos 2600	Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5
Best loop score	2,037	1,247
Lowest loop score	878	709
Stability	43.1%	56.9%

The Exynos 2600 surprisingly outperforms the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 in the Solar Bay Extreme Stress Test, which means that the latest phones have excellent ray tracing performance.

Now that we’re aware of the benchmark data, let’s dig further into the key differences to get a clearer picture.

Exynos 2600 vs Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5: Key differences

The Exynos 2600 was announced just three months after the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, as the world’s first smartphone chipset to use a 2nm process. In February 2026, it debuted with the Galaxy S26 series.

CPU, GPU, and NPU

The Exynos 2600 features a 10-core CPU, which includes one C1-Ultra prime core, three C1-Pro high-performance cores, and six C1-Pro high-efficiency cores. The Snapdragon 8 Elite uses a custom-designed Oryon CPU, featuring two Oryon prime cores (third-gen) and six Oryon performance cores (third-gen).

The Snapdragon 8 Elite benefits from a higher peak CPU speed, which is one of the reasons it scored higher in the single-core test on Geekbench. For graphics-intensive tasks, the Exynos 2600 relies on the Xclipse 960 GPU, while the Snapdragon chip uses the Adreno 840 GPU.

Both chipsets have highly capable GPUs with strong ray tracing capabilities. However, the Exynos 2600 may have an edge, as seen in 3DMark tests.

The Exynos 2600 and Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 feature advanced NPUs optimized for on-device generative AI. They also use AI to optimize connectivity, camera, and many other aspects.

Camera

The Exynos 2600 introduces an AI-powered Visual Perception System (VPS), which replaces the traditional ISP with a dedicated AI subsystem for real-time scene analysis, object recognition, and noise reduction. This enables ultra-high-res processing at 60fps with over 50% better power efficiency than the Exynos 2400.

The Exynos chip features Deep Learning Video Noise Reduction (DVNR) for noise reduction in low-light conditions and supports hybrid OIS + AI-EIS for better stabilization.

On the other hand, the Snapdragon 8 Elite offers 20-bit triple AI-ISPs, delivering 4x dynamic range, real-time semantic segmentation with up to 250 layers, and direct NPU access to raw sensor data for on-device AI processing. Additionally, the chip offers a range of features to further improve the camera output, including object eraser, skin/sky tone enhancements, Night Vision 3.0, video object eraser, and Snapdragon Audio Sense.

Connectivity

The Exynos 2600 features a redesigned connectivity setup with an external modem (Exynos Modem 5410), offloading cellular, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth from the main 2nm die to improve the thermal efficiency and space for CPU/GPU.

The Exynos chip supports a higher peak download speed of 14.79Gbps (vs. 12.5Gbps) and a higher peak upload speed of 4.9Gbps (vs. 3.7Gbps) on a cellular connection compared to the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5.

The Snapdragon chip features an integrated Snapdragon X85 5G modem with FastConnect 7900 for robust connectivity. Wi-Fi 7 supports a peak speed of 5.8Gbps. Furthermore, the chip includes AI-powered optimizations for traffic prioritization, seamless Wi-Fi/cellular switching, and enhanced satellite support.

Exynos 2600 vs Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5: Which is a better choice?

Since we haven’t yet tested an Exynos 2600-powered Samsung phone, it’s difficult to say whether it’s the same story this year or if the Exynos 2600 completely outperforms the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5. However, based on the benchmark data and spec sheet, the Exynos 2500 appears to be significantly better than its predecessor, particularly in gaming performance.

The Exynos chip also introduces major camera upgrades, including Deep Learning Video Noise Reduction. It now features a redesigned connectivity system with an external modem, which claims to improve thermal efficiency.

That said, the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 still delivers strong CPU performance and features a mature ISP with excellent imaging capabilities. Its robust connectivity system with better carrier support also makes a notable difference.

The post Exynos 2600 vs Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5: The battle gets more intense appeared first on Gizmochina.

The OriginOS 6 update is rolling out to the last phase of eligible devices. Part of this phase, the iQOO Z9 and iQOO Z9x have recently started receiving the Android 16 update, which brings a host of new features and upgrades across the system.

The Android 16-based update for the iQOO Z9 is tagged with the firmware version PD2346F_EX_A_16.2.10.4.W30, while the iQOO Z9x is getting it as PD2353F_EX_A_16.2.11.0.W30, as spotted by Ytechb. The initial rollout may be limited to select regions. So, if you don’t see the update on your device, check again in a few days once the rollout expands. You can manually check for updates via the System updates section in the Settings app.

If the update doesn’t appear on your iQOO smartphone, you can get it sooner by requesting it through the trial program. For this, navigate to Settings > About Phone > System updates > version Trial > Trial version > download and install.

The OriginOS 6 update is a hefty one, weighing in at around 4GB. Therefore, you must ensure that your device has sufficient storage and that it’s charged to at least 40% for a smooth upgrade to OriginOS 6. You can also back up important data for added safety.

Once you have the software installed on your phone, there’s a lot to explore, including an all-new Origin Island that offers real-time updates and improved multitasking. The Control Center now features an enhanced notification center, improved lighting effects, and new system fonts. The lock screen features new clock styles, new widgets, and better layout controls. OriginOS 6 also introduces improvements to privacy, security, and battery efficiency. You can read the complete changelog on this page.

Be sure to regularly visit the iQOO section on Gizmochina to get the latest updates. Or, if you prefer your news instant and on-the-go, hop into our Telegram channel for rapid-fire software updates and all the biggest tech headlines.

The post OriginOS 6 update now rolling out to iQOO Z9 and Z9x appeared first on Gizmochina.

Oppo is wrapping up ColorOS 16 rollout as it announces the update timeline for the last batch of eligible devices. The March 2026 timeline mostly focuses on mid-range devices, such as the Oppo F31 series, Reno 12F, Reno12 FS, K12x 5G, and more.

ColorOS 16 rollout schedule for March 2026

• March 5: Oppo F31 Pro+ 5G, Oppo F31 Pro 5G
• March 6: Oppo K13x 5G
• March 10: Oppo Reno12 F, Oppo Reno12 FS, Oppo Reno11 FS, Oppo K12x 5G
• March 17: Oppo F31 5G

Some of these devices, including the Oppo F31 Pro models and Oppo K13x 5G, are already receiving the ColorOS 16 update. The rollout may be limited to select regions for now, but it should eventually expand to the remaining devices this month.

If your Oppo device is on the list above, you can expect the ColorOS 16 update this month. To manually check for available updates, go to Settings > System & Updates > Software update.

Keep in mind that this is a major upgrade, and hence the update size will be a few gigabytes. So, ensure that your device has sufficient storage and it’s charged to at least 50% for a smooth upgrade to ColorOS 16. You can read about the changes and new features in ColorOS 16 here.

With the ColorOS 16 rollout nearing completion, Oppo is reportedly already working on its next major upgrade based on Android 17. Google has already released the first two public betas, and more are expected in the coming weeks. The stable version is likely to arrive in Q3 2026.

We’ll keep you updated with the latest news in our Oppo section, so make sure to check it regularly for new updates. You can also join our Telegram channel to get instant notifications.

The post These Oppo devices will receive ColorOS 16 (Android 16) update this month appeared first on Gizmochina.

Following weeks of beta testing, Xiaomi has finally begun rolling out a stable HyperOS 3.1 update to the initial set of devices. The latest HyperOS software, based on Android 16, brings meaningful upgrades and plenty of fixes to deliver a refined software experience.

The latest update is available for the new Xiaomi 17 series and Redmi K90 Pro Max, as shared by Xiaomi Time. Currently, the rollout is restricted to China, as has been the case with previous HyperOS releases. However, it will eventually reach Xiaomi devices globally soon.

• Xiaomi 17: OS3.0.301.0.WPCCNXM
• Xiaomi 17 Pro: OS3.0.301.0.WBLCNXM
• Xiaomi 17 Pro Max: OS3.0.301.0.WPBCNXM
• Redmi K90 Pro Max: OS3.0.301.0.WPMCNXM

Xiaomi will expand the HyperOS 3.1 update to more devices over the coming days and weeks. And soon, it will also start rolling out in other regions. We’ll continue to update you on the latest developments in our Xiaomi section.

You should receive a notification on your device once the update is ready for download and installation. You can also manually check for available updates by navigating to Settings > My device and tapping the HyperOS logo at the top.

Xiaomi HyperOS 3.1 update: complete changelog

[Notes]
– This update will upgrade from the Beta version to the official version. Some functions are only available in the Beta version. After upgrading to the official version, some Beta version functions will no longer be available. For specific functions, please refer to the official version.

[System]
– Optimize the display effect of the gesture prompt line in some scenarios
– Fix the problem of system sharing crashing in some scenarios
– Fix the problem of abnormal sharing of handwritten notes in some scenarios
– Fix the problem of abnormal location display in some scenarios
– Fix the occasional black screen problem after restoring factory settings
– Fix the problem of abnormal file uploading in some third-party applications
– Fix the problem of unencryptable private files in app clones in some scenarios
– Fix the problem of unrecognizable SIM cards in some special scenarios
– Fix the occasional connection problem with AirPods in some scenarios
– Fix the abnormal opening of some files in dual-app scenarios

[Launcher]
– Add support for stacking recent tasks, making it more beautiful and smooth

[Smart Assistant]
– Fix the occasional lag problem in the Negative Screen in some scenarios

[Gallery]
– Optimize the smoothness in some scenarios and improve the user experience (App is recreated with Rust)

[Weather]
– Fix the problem of unresponsive weather in some scenarios (App is recreated with Rust)

[Status bar and notification bar]
– Fix the abnormal display of the network icon in the status bar in some scenarios

Be sure to visit the Xiaomi section regularly for fresh details. Alternatively, you can join our Telegram channel to get instant alerts about the latest HyperOS releases and breaking tech news.

The post Xiaomi HyperOS 3.1 stable rollout begins: These devices are getting it first appeared first on Gizmochina.