Qualcomm CEO pushes Samsung, SK Hynix, LG on AI chip deals
Qualcomm CEO Cristiano Amon met with executives from Samsung Electronics, SK Hynix, and LG Electronics during a visit to South Korea this week to discuss semiconductor manufacturing and memory supply for AI chips.
The meetings signal Qualcomm's shift beyond smartphones into automotive and data center markets, where stable chip supply has become critical.
Samsung foundry talks center on advanced chip production
Amon met with Samsung's foundry leadership, including Han Jin-man, president of the Device Solutions division's foundry business. The discussion focused on outsourcing production of Qualcomm's next-generation Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 processor to Samsung's 2-nanometer manufacturing process.
For Samsung, which faces pressure to secure major clients, the potential order represents a significant opportunity to revive its struggling foundry business. Industry sources said the outcome depends on whether these discussions convert into actual contracts.
Memory strategy for AI expansion
Amon met separately with SK Hynix to address memory supply as Qualcomm expands into AI semiconductors. The company needs reliable memory sources as it grows its automotive and data center inference businesses beyond its core smartphone market.
LG explores AI-powered devices
During a meeting with LG President Lyu Jae-cheol, the focus shifted to physical AI applications. The discussions covered smart homes, mobility, and robotics-areas where LG is building generative AI capabilities.
LG sees Qualcomm's communications and chipset technology as a foundation for deploying real-world AI services, from robots to connected vehicles, rather than just software-based AI tools.
Related reading: AI for Executives & Strategy and Generative AI and LLM
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