A method for fabricating a semiconductor device with a heterogeneous solder joint includes: providing a semiconductor die; providing a coupled element; and soldering the semiconductor die to the coupled element with a first solder joint. The first solder joint includes: a solder material including a first metal composition; and a coating including a second metal composition, different from the first metal composition, the coating at least partially covering the solder material. The second metal composition has a greater stiffness and/or a higher melting point than the first metal composition.