Samsung Expects Record Q3 Profit Despite Mobile Unit Losses, Reports Indicate

Samsung expects to report a record profit of KRW 107.4 trillion ($80.1 billion) on KRW 195 trillion ($145.5 billion) in revenue for the third quarter of 2026, driven by strong memory chip sales fueled by artificial intelligence demand, androidheadlines.com reported. The company released its earnings guidance for the period, outlining financial estimates that point to substantial growth alongside notable division losses.

Memory Chip Sales Drive Record Third-Quarter Estimates

The projected third-quarter profit represents a 20 percent increase compared to the second quarter of 2026, which itself surpassed the company’s first-quarter performance. Compared to the third quarter of 2025, Samsung’s profit has increased by 782.5 percent, or 7.8 times, while revenue has grown by 126 percent, or 1.2 times. Company estimates indicate that Samsung’s total profit for the entire year of 2026 is expected to surpass its cumulative profit over the past 40 years.

Because the figures released are earnings guidance estimates, final numbers may vary slightly when the official report is published later this month. However, these guidance reports typically align closely with final outcomes. Looking ahead, analysts predict that Samsung could expand its financial performance further next year, with operating profit potentially reaching KRW 550 trillion ($408.7 billion), an estimated 45 percent increase over the current year.

Rising Component Costs Pressurize Mobile and Appliance Divisions

Despite strong semiconductor performance, Samsung MX, the division that includes selling mobile devices, is facing financial losses stemming from the rising prices of memory chips. The mobile unit’s operating loss is estimated at approximately KRW 1.5 trillion ($1.11 billion). Market trends indicate that this pressure on the mobile division will likely continue into next year.

Losses extend beyond the smartphone business into other hardware sectors within the company. Samsung’s Digital Appliances and TV divisions are also facing financial strain, with an expected operating loss of around KRW 500 billion ($371.5 million).