Qualcomm to Launch Snapdragon 8 Plus Chip for 2025 Flagship Phones

Key Takeaways

1. Qualcomm plans to launch the Snapdragon 8 Plus in late 2025 to target the premium mid-range market.
2. The Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 is set to be Qualcomm’s flagship processor for 2025, featuring advanced 3nm technology and custom CPU cores.
3. Snapdragon 8 Plus aims to deliver nearly flagship-level performance at a more affordable price compared to the Elite 2.
4. Devices using the Snapdragon 8 Plus may feature larger batteries, potentially around 7,000mAh, enhancing battery life.
5. Qualcomm is shifting its strategy to better position the Snapdragon 8 Plus between its budget-friendly “S” series and flagship offerings.

Qualcomm might be getting ready to launch a new chip called the “Snapdragon 8 Plus” to disrupt the premium mid-range market in late 2025. Recent information indicates that this chip, referred to internally as the SM8845, could be a budget-friendly option compared to the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2, which is anticipated to be the powerhouse behind next year’s leading Android devices.

Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 Overview

The Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 is expected to be Qualcomm’s flagship processor for 2025, likely debuting in Q3. Built using TSMC’s advanced 3nm technology and featuring custom Oryon CPU cores, this chip should provide a significant boost in both performance and efficiency. High-end devices, such as the Galaxy S26 Ultra, are expected to incorporate it, although initial indications suggest that prices could rise even more than the already lofty cost of the 8 Elite.

The Role of Snapdragon 8 Plus

This is where the Snapdragon 8 Plus enters the picture. Anticipated to launch in Q4 2025, this chip won’t be a direct successor to the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4; instead, it will represent a new category. It is believed to have similar key features, like the same GPU architecture, as the Elite 2 but at a more competitive price point. The goal appears to be providing nearly flagship-level performance without the hefty price tag, which could be advantageous for “flagship killer” smartphones. Sources also suggest that devices using this chip might include much larger batteries—potentially around 7,000mAh—compared to those with the Elite 2.

Qualcomm’s Strategy Shift

Previously, Qualcomm marketed the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 as a toned-down alternative to its elite Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. However, with the introduction of the 8s Gen 4, this strategy changed. Rather than offering a true substitute for the flagship chip, the 8s Gen 4 merely replicated the performance of last year’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. Now, Qualcomm appears to be realigning its strategy once again, seeking to fill the gap between the budget-friendly “S” series and its complete flagship range.

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