Key Takeaways
1. Qualcomm is developing the SM8845 chip to fill a gap between the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 and Snapdragon 8 Elite, targeting affordable performance enthusiasts.
2. The SM8845 will utilize TSMC’s N3P 3nm process and Oryon CPU cores, featuring two prime cores and six performance cores for good performance and efficiency.
3. This new chip aims to offer premium features to mid-range devices, challenging the notion that high-end performance is exclusive to flagship models.
4. The release of the SM8845 is anticipated in autumn 2025, potentially alongside the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2, although a specific launch date is not confirmed.
5. If successful, the SM8845 could transform the Android market by providing high-performance capabilities at lower price points, enhancing value for consumers.
Qualcomm might be on the verge of transforming the smartphone chipset market with an exciting new product: the SM8845. This chip sits between the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 and the soon-to-launch Snapdragon 8 Elite, and it could offer nearly top-notch performance in more affordable phones aimed at performance enthusiasts.
New Chip Design
This latest processor is said to be a bit less powerful than the 8 Elite, but it shares some features with the 8 Elite 2. The information comes from a report by Digital Chat Station, which indicates that Qualcomm is working on the SM8845 to fill a gap in its 2025 product lineup. This shift follows the company’s recent changes, where they moved from the anticipated Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 to the Snapdragon 8 Elite, likely due to its similarities with the X Elite chips used in laptops. The Snapdragon 8s Gen 3, which doesn’t include Oryon CPU cores, was overlooked, while the 8 Elite drives flagship devices like the OnePlus 13 and Galaxy S25 Ultra. Now, the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4, which is equipped with ARM Cortex-X4 and Cortex-A720 cores, is aimed at mid-range phones, creating space for another chip below the 8 Elite.
Technical Specifications
The SM8845 is distinct from other models such as the SM8550 (Snapdragon 8 Gen 2), SM8735 (8s Gen 4), and SM8850 (8 Elite 2). It is reported to utilize TSMC’s N3P 3nm fabrication process with Oryon CPU cores, which includes two prime cores and six performance cores akin to the 8 Elite. This configuration is expected to deliver good performance and efficiency, although it may not reach the peak levels of the 8 Elite.
When will this new chipset make its appearance? While an exact launch date is still not disclosed, it may arrive in autumn, potentially alongside the 8 Elite 2. Information about GPU specifications is also currently unavailable.
Market Impact
By introducing this new chip, Qualcomm aims to bridge the divide between its existing ‘S’ series chips and the highest tier flagship processors, allowing sub-brands to access premium features. This move challenges the idea that high-end performance is only for top-tier devices. Nevertheless, with scant information and a lack of official announcements, doubts remain—after all, leaks can sometimes promise too much. If the SM8845 comes to fruition, it could significantly change the landscape of value within the Android market by late 2025.
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