Just like its predecessors, the Galaxy S27 Ultra is widely expected to use the top-tier Snapdragon processor, aiming to provide the best possible performance. However, Samsung could have the choice to opt for an inferior chip and offer its flagship at a better price.
Qualcomm may launch two versions of its upcoming flagship chipset
Qualcomm is reportedly testing two versions of the upcoming flagship Snapdragon chipset. There’s a version utilizing LPDDR5X memory and a more advanced “Pro” version that relies on a faster LPDDR6 memory, according to a Gizmochina report.
The two versions of the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 will have matching clock speeds, leaving the memory type as the only major difference between them. The Pro model will also support faster UFS 5.0 storage, which is expected to help it achieve higher performance, including for AI processing.
Both chips are expected to be manufactured on TSMC’s advanced 2nm process, which should make them faster and more efficient than the previous generations. The new processors are likely to be the best 2nm Android chips and to power the Ultra flagship launching later in 2026 and in early 2027.
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What version of the Galaxy S27 Ultra would you prefer?
It comes down to the price
The Galaxy S26 Ultra had a Snapdragon chipset. | Image by PhoneArena
Earlier rumors about the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro suggested that its price could reach over $300 per unit, which is the most likely reason for having a non-Pro version. That would allow brands to choose a more affordable chip with slower memory or a pricier option with the latest LPDDR6 memory.
In the last few years, Samsung has used exclusively custom versions of the top-tier Snapdragon chips for its Ultra flagships. Considering the growing component prices, the Galaxy S27 Ultra is almost certainly going to come at a higher price, especially if it uses the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro.
As unlikely as it may sound, opting for the lower-tier chipset could help the company to avoid excessive price increases for its flagship. Of course, such a move is unlikely, as the S27 Ultra is meant to go above and beyond, even if that boosts its price.
In his in-depth review of the Galaxy S26 Ultra, my colleague Victor found that Samsung finally managed to rival Apple in single-core performance, and firmly beat the iPhone 17 Pro Max in the multi-core benchmark. The speed of the S26 Ultra also translates to a smoother and more efficient gaming performance compared to the Galaxy S25 Ultra.
Only one thing is certain
The Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro will be quite expensive. | Image by Gizmochina
Smartphone prices are certainly going up this year, and even the iPhone 18 won’t be spared. Tim Cook personally confirmed that Apple will raise its prices, following adjustments from almost every other company.
Even the non-Pro Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 is probably going to be more expensive than the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, which will likely make all flagship Android phones more expensive.
A good tradeoff
I think modern smartphones are already fast enough, and opting for slightly slower chipsets shouldn’t be much of an issue for the vast majority of users. If I were Samsung, I’d offer both versions and let people choose whether they want a little better performance or a lower price.
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Ilia, a tech journalist at PhoneArena, has been covering the mobile industry since 2011, with experience at outlets like Forbes Bulgaria. Passionate about smartphones, tablets, and consumer tech, he blends deep industry knowledge with a personal fascination that began with his first Nokia and Sony Ericsson devices. Originally from Bulgaria and now based in Lima, Peru, Ilia balances his tech obsessions with walking his dog, training at the gym, and slowly mastering Spanish.
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