Excitement is building for Samsung’s upcoming Fan Edition (FE) smartphone, the Galaxy S25 FE, but a new leak suggests the device might disappoint those hoping for a major chipset upgrade. According to a recent report from Android Authority, the S25 FE could retain the same Exynos 2400e processor found in its predecessor, the S24 FE, rather than adopting Qualcomm’s newer Snapdragon 8 Gen 3.
What’s Powering the Galaxy S25 FE?
The Exynos 2400e, a slightly pared-down version of Samsung’s flagship Exynos 2400 chip, made its debut in the S24 FE. While it delivers solid mid-tier performance, the decision to reuse it in the S25 FE has raised eyebrows. Industry watchers expected Samsung to follow its tradition of upgrading FE models with newer silicon to bridge the gap between budget and premium devices.
A detailed comparison by NanoReview highlights the performance gap between the Exynos 2400e and Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. The Snapdragon chip outperforms Samsung’s offering in both CPU and GPU benchmarks, with a notable edge in energy efficiency—a critical factor for battery life and thermal management.
Why Stick With the Exynos 2400e?
Sources suggest cost optimization and supply chain stability are driving Samsung’s choice. The FE series has always prioritized affordability, and reusing existing components could help keep prices competitive. Additionally, Samsung may be doubling down on its in-house Exynos chips to reduce reliance on Qualcomm, especially in markets like Europe and Asia where Exynos variants dominate.
“The FE lineup walks a tightrope between value and performance,” said tech analyst Priya Sharma. “Reusing the Exynos 2400e might help Samsung hit a lower price point, but it risks alienating enthusiasts who expect year-on-year improvements.”
Consumer Reactions and Market Impact
The news has sparked mixed reactions online. While some fans appreciate the potential for a cheaper device, others argue that the FE series is losing its “flagship lite” appeal. Competitors like Google’s Pixel 8a and OnePlus’ Nord 4, which boast newer processors, could capitalize on this hesitation.
What Else to Expect From the S25 FE
Rumors hint at upgrades elsewhere, including a brighter AMOLED display, enhanced cameras, and a larger battery. Samsung is also expected to commit to four Android OS updates for the device, aligning it with its flagship siblings.
The Galaxy S25 FE is likely to debut in late 2024, following the launch of the standard Galaxy S25 series. While the processor news may dampen hype, Samsung’s ability to balance cost and features will ultimately determine whether the FE remains a fan favorite.
What’s your take? Should Samsung prioritize price over performance in its FE lineup, or is a chipset upgrade non-negotiable? Let us know in the comments.