Tag: Qualcomm

April 16, 2025
Snapdragon X Elite 2 Rumored to Boost Performance by 22%
Key Takeaways
1. The Snapdragon X Elite 2 may feature 18 CPU cores and is expected to launch in October 2023, with broader availability by 2026.
2. CPU boost clocks for the Snapdragon X Elite 2 could start at 4.4 GHz, potentially reaching up to 5.0 GHz, while the high-end model may boost between 3.8 GHz and 4.4 GHz.
3. Performance gains of 18-22% are anticipated, but higher clock speeds alone may not guarantee these improvements.
4. The Snapdragon X Elite 2 could utilize TSMC’s N3P process, with speculation about a possible N2P node delaying availability until 2026.
5. Qualcomm faces software support challenges, particularly with the Windows-on-Arm platform, affecting the performance and return rates of laptops with Snapdragon chips.
So far, news regarding Qualcomm’s upcoming laptop SoCs has been limited. One source mentioned that the Snapdragon X Elite 2 (or Snapdragon X2 Elite) might be released with 18 CPU cores, while another indicated a launch date in October, with broader availability expected to begin in 2026. A recent leak from a well-known Weibo blogger, Fixed Focus Digital (shared by Jukanlosreve on X), provides some insights into the CPU speeds.
New CPU Clocks Revealed
It seems that the Snapdragon X Elite 2/Snapdragon X2 Elite will have Nuvia-based CPUs, with boost clocks starting at 4.4 GHz. This could potentially increase to around 5.0 GHz in certain workloads. On the other hand, the high-end Snapdragon X Elite model (X1E-84-100) might boost between 3.8 GHz and 4.4 GHz. The leak also suggests that this could lead to a performance increase of 18-22%.
Potential for Performance Gains
However, just a rise in clock speed might not be sufficient to achieve the aforementioned performance gains. The first-generation Snapdragon X Elite was produced using TSMC’s N4P process, while the next-gen Snapdragon X2 Elite/Snapdragon X Elite 2 may utilize the N3P node. Some speculate it could use N2P, but if that’s the case, it probably wouldn’t be ready for the market until 2026.
Software Support Challenges
Despite the raw performance, Qualcomm’s significant challenge with the Snapdragon X Elite has been related to software support. Some laptops equipped with these chips have even been labeled as “frequently returned item” on Amazon. However, Qualcomm is not entirely to blame, as many of these problems are rooted in the Windows-on-Arm platform.
Source:
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Tags: laptop SoCs, Qualcomm, Snapdragon X Elite 2
April 14, 2025
Qualcomm SM8845: Bridging Snapdragon 8 Elite and 8s Gen 4
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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Tags: Qualcomm, SM8845, Snapdragon 8 Elite
April 13, 2025
New Qualcomm Snapdragon SM8845 Specs Leak for Affordable Flagships
Key Takeaways
1. Qualcomm rebranded its mobile chipsets, introducing the Snapdragon 8 Elite instead of the expected Snapdragon 8 Gen 4.
2. The Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 features ARM Cortex-X4 and Cortex-A720 CPU cores, but device compatibility is still uncertain.
3. The Snapdragon 8 Elite supports flagship models like the Nubia Z70 Ultra and Galaxy S25 Ultra, priced at $1,099.99.
4. Qualcomm is developing the SM8845 chipset, aimed at providing lower performance for affordable flagship devices.
5. The SM8845 will include Oryon CPU cores built on TSMC’s N3P technology, with two prime and six performance cores expected.
Qualcomm made a significant change last year by rebranding its mobile chipsets just three generations after launching the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1. Initially, many people thought the company would unveil the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4, but it shifted focus to the Snapdragon 8 Elite instead. This decision may have been influenced by the similarities in architecture with the Snapdragon X Elite laptop chipsets. As a result, Qualcomm chose to set the Snapdragon 8 Elite apart from the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3, which did not include Oryon CPU cores.
Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 Unveiled
Now, looking ahead to 2025, Qualcomm has introduced the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4, which features a combination of ARM Cortex-X4 and Cortex-A720 CPU cores. It’s still uncertain which devices will be powered by the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4. However, the more robust Snapdragon 8 Elite supports numerous flagship models, such as the Nubia Z70 Ultra and the Galaxy S25 Ultra, currently priced at $1,099.99 on Amazon. Reports from Digital Chat Station suggest that another budget-friendly flagship chipset is expected to arrive alongside both the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 and Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 later this year.
New Chipset Development
Qualcomm is reportedly working on a new chipset identified as SM8845, in contrast to SM8550 for the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, SM8735 for the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4, and SM8850 for the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2. According to a post on Weibo by Digital Chat Station, the SM8845 is anticipated to have lower performance compared to the Snapdragon 8 Elite. This move is likely aimed at enabling Android OEMs to expand their affordable flagship range, focusing on sub-brands such as Redmi, Realme, and iQOO.
Performance Goals
To meet performance expectations, Qualcomm plans to equip the SM8845 with the latest Oryon CPU cores built on TSMC’s N3P technology. It is expected that this chipset will have two prime CPU cores and six performance cores. Currently, not much else is known about the SM8845, including whether it will be launched alongside the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 this fall.
Source:
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Tags: Qualcomm, Snapdragon 8 Elite, Snapdragon 8S Gen 4
April 10, 2025
Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 Beats 8 Gen 3 in Early Benchmark Tests
Key Takeaways
1. Qualcomm has launched the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 chipset as an upgrade to the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3.
2. In single-core and multi-core performance tests, the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 scored 2,263 and 7,414, respectively, comparable to Snapdragon 8 Gen 3.
3. GPU performance shows the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 slightly outperforms the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 in some tests, but not all.
4. The new chipset offers better gaming performance with higher frame rates and reduced power consumption compared to devices using Snapdragon 8 Gen 3.
5. Benchmarks were conducted on a reference design device, which may show optimal performance, unlike retail devices tested against it.
Qualcomm has recently unveiled its new mid-range chipset, the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4, just last week. This chipset is a direct upgrade from the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 released last year. Although there are no official devices using this chipset available yet, benchmarks from Qualcomm’s reference design division have now come to light.
Performance Insights
In tests conducted by Geekerwan, the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 scored 2,263 in single-core performance, and 7,414 in multi-core performance. In contrast, last year’s Xiaomi 14, which uses the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (can be purchased on Amazon), achieved a single-core score of 2,213 and a multi-core score of 7,454. The CPU performance of the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 is on par with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 in our testing, and it outright surpasses many Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 phones in our records.
Graphics Performance
The GPU performance tells a similar story, with the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 slightly outperforming the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 in 3DMark’s Steel Nomad Light test. However, when it comes to the WildLife Extreme test, the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 scored 5,100, while the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 managed 5,214. In popular games such as Genshin Impact and Honkai Impact 3rd, the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 also delivered marginally better frame rates, experienced fewer FPS drops, and consumed less power compared to the OnePlus Ace 3 Pro, which is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3.
Overall Comparison
Clearly, the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 matches the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 in various metrics. The new chipset equals last year’s flagship SoC in CPU benchmarks and shows a slight edge in GPU performance. It’s crucial to keep in mind that these benchmarks were conducted on a QRD device—typically portraying the best-case performance for the chipset—while the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 devices it was compared to were actual retail products available for purchase.
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Link
Tags: Qualcomm, Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, Snapdragon 8S Gen 4
April 10, 2025
Samsung Foundry Nears Deal to Acquire Qualcomm as Customer
Key Takeaways
1. Qualcomm and Samsung Foundry’s partnership has faced challenges since the Snapdragon 888 and Snapdragon 8 Gen 1, with Samsung focusing on entry-level and mid-range chips.
2. A deal between Qualcomm and Samsung Foundry is expected soon, with chip samples recently delivered; production will likely use advanced 3 nm class nodes.
3. The Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 for Galaxy is rumored to be produced on Samsung’s 2 nm node, while the standard version will use TSMC’s N3P node.
4. The Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 is anticipated to power upcoming Galaxy S26 and Galaxy Z Fold 8 devices, with improved yield rates at Samsung Foundry potentially facilitating production.
5. Sourcing chips from both TSMC and Samsung may lead to compatibility issues, and while Samsung’s technology has advantages, it may still struggle to compete with TSMC.
Qualcomm and Samsung Foundry have had a rocky partnership since the Snapdragon 888 and Snapdragon 8 Gen 1. Following those events, Samsung Foundry has mostly focused on producing entry-level and mid-range chips. However, a recent report from the South Korean news site FNNews indicates that this situation might change shortly.
New Developments on the Horizon
The report mentions that a deal with Qualcomm is “imminent,” as Samsung Foundry has recently delivered samples to the U.S. chip manufacturer. Although the specifics are not clearly stated, it is expected that the chips will be produced using one of Samsung’s 3 nm class nodes, probably SF3P or SF2. Since this is an advanced technology node, it’s improbable that it would be utilized for mid-range products.
Rumors About Snapdragon 8 Elite 2
This aligns with previous rumors suggesting that the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 for Galaxy (previously referred to as the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 for Galaxy) will be produced on Samsung’s 2 nm node. Meanwhile, the standard version of the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 is anticipated to utilize TSMC’s N3P node.
If everything goes as planned, the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 for Galaxy is expected to power the Galaxy S26 and Galaxy Z Fold 8 series in the upcoming year. This time around, the chip may actually be ready before the devices are available for purchase, as another report claims Samsung Foundry’s 2 nm yield has improved to approximately 40% (up from 20%). While this yield isn’t sufficient for mass production, it provides Samsung ample opportunity to surpass the 60% threshold needed for production.
Potential Issues Ahead
That being said, sourcing chips from both TSMC and Samsung Foundry could create some issues for end users and might lead to a situation similar to Chipgate. On paper, Samsung’s node holds an advantage over TSMC’s N3P due to its GAA (gate all around) design, unlike TSMC’s FinFET. However, this advantage alone may not be enough to surpass TSMC’s capabilities.
FNNews’s report highlights these developments, providing insight into the ongoing dynamics between Qualcomm and Samsung Foundry.
Source:
Link
Tags: Qualcomm, Samsung Foundry, Snapdragon 8 Elite 2
April 7, 2025
Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 Leak: 30% GPU Performance Boost Expected
Key Takeaways
1. Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 features a GPU cache increase from 12MB to 16MB, leading to a potential performance boost of around ±30%.
2. The chip is expected to utilize Qualcomm’s next-gen custom Oryon cores, providing a CPU performance increase of about ±25%.
3. It will have a 2+6 core setup, with benchmarks predicting around 3.8 million points on AnTuTu, showing a near 30% improvement over current Snapdragon 8 Elite devices.
4. The new chip will support LPDDR5X and LPDDR6 memory types and will be based on the latest ARM v9 architecture.
5. Qualcomm is using TSMC’s 3nm N3P process for manufacturing, similar to the technology for Apple’s upcoming A19 chip, with a possible announcement expected around October.
The Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 is drawing attention even though it won’t be officially released for over a quarter. Today, it’s making waves again due to a recent leak that reveals some exciting advancements in CPU and GPU capabilities.
CPU and GPU Enhancements
Recent info has emerged from a trustworthy industry source, Digital Chat Station in China. This leak indicates that Qualcomm plans to increase the GPU cache from 12MB, as seen in the current Snapdragon 8 Elite, to 16MB for the Elite 2. This adjustment is reportedly linked to a performance increase of around ±30% in initial tests.
Performance Specifications
On the CPU front, the leak hints that Qualcomm’s next-generation custom Oryon cores could provide a performance boost of about ±25%. The chip is anticipated to consist of a 2+6 core setup, featuring two prime cores and six performance cores—details previously mentioned by the same source. Benchmarks suggest the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 might achieve around 3.8 million points on AnTuTu, indicating a near 30% improvement over the highest scores from current devices using the Snapdragon 8 Elite.
Memory and Manufacturing
Moreover, the new chip is expected to be compatible with both LPDDR5X and LPDDR6 memory types. It will also support SME1 and SVE2 instruction sets, which means it will be based on the latest ARM v9 architecture. Qualcomm is reportedly using TSMC’s 3nm N3P process to manufacture the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2, which is also rumored to be the same technology used for Apple’s forthcoming A19 chip.
While it’s premature for Qualcomm to officially announce the launch of the 8 Elite 2, based on previous patterns, an announcement might be expected around October.
Tags: GPU Performance, Qualcomm, Snapdragon 8 Elite 2
March 31, 2025
Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 AnTuTu and Geekbench Score Breakdown
Key Takeaways
1. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 is a powerful chipset with eight CPU cores, clock speeds up to 3GHz, and an Adreno 730 GPU, suitable for high-end gaming.
2. It is built on a 4nm process, which improves performance, energy efficiency, and AI capabilities, and is used in premium smartphones from major brands like Xiaomi and Samsung.
3. AnTuTu benchmark results show the Galaxy S22 Ultra scored over 1.12 million points, with specific scores of 289,636 for CPU, 409,725 for GPU, 202,994 for memory, and 221,402 for user experience.
4. Geekbench scores for the Galaxy S22 Ultra reveal a single-core score of 1,713 and a multi-core score of 3,933, reflecting strong CPU performance.
5. In the 3DMark Wild Life Stress Test, the Galaxy S22 Ultra achieved a peak loop score of 9,056 with a stability rating of 48%, indicating performance consistency under heavy graphical loads.
The Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 is a premium chipset by Qualcomm that was revealed in December 2021. It boasts eight CPU cores, reaching clock speeds of up to 3GHz, and is equipped with an Adreno 730 GPU capable of running high-end video games without a hitch.
Performance Enhancements
Manufactured on a 4nm process, this Qualcomm processor offers notable gains in performance, energy efficiency, and AI functionalities. It already powers a variety of high-end smartphones from top brands such as Xiaomi, Samsung, OnePlus, and Vivo. In this article, we will delve into the AnTuTu and Geekbench scores for the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1, providing insight into its actual performance. These metrics will allow you to see how this chipset compares with others in the market.
AnTuTu Benchmark Results
AnTuTu is a widely recognized benchmarking application that tests a device’s performance through a series of assessments across different components, such as CPU, GPU, memory, and UX (user experience). The final score reflects the combined results of these tests.
The Galaxy S22 Ultra, which uses the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1, scored over 1.12 million points on AnTuTu (v10). The breakdown reveals a CPU score of 289,636 points, a GPU score of 409,725 points, a memory score of 202,994 points, and a UX score of 221,402 points.
AnTuTu score: 1,123,750
CPU: 289,636
GPU: 409,725
Memory: 202,994
UX: 221,402
Geekbench Performance Evaluation
Geekbench serves as a popular tool for assessing the CPU performance of devices. It undertakes real-world and synthetic evaluations, including image processing, machine learning, and file compression, to gauge how effectively a processor manages various tasks.
The platform provides both single-core and multi-core scores. The single-core score indicates performance with one core, while the multi-core score reflects performance across all cores. The Galaxy S22 Ultra equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 achieved 1,713 points in single-core performance and 3,933 points in multi-core performance on Geekbench (v6).
Geekbench 6
Single-core: 1,713
Multi-core: 3,933
3DMark Stress Test Analysis
We also evaluated the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 using the 3DMark Wild Life Stress Test, which assesses how well a device performs under extensive graphical loads. This test measures thermal stability, throttling, and overall performance consistency by executing a series of demanding graphics tests over time.
In the Wild Life Stress Test, the Galaxy S22 Ultra recorded a peak loop score of 9,056, while the lowest loop score was 4,349, resulting in a stability rating of about 48%.
Wild Life Stress Test
Best loop score: 9,056
Lowest loop score: 4,349
Stability: 48%
Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 Specifications
SD 8 Gen 1
Announced: December 2021
Process node: 4nm
Manufacturer: Samsung
Cores: 8
CPU architecture: 1 x Cortex-X2 @ 3 GHz
3 x Cortex-A710 @ 2.5 GHz
4 x Cortex-A510 @ 1.8 GHz
GPU: Adreno 730
Snapdragon Elite Gaming
NPU: Hexagon NPU
Camera: Spectra 18-bit triple ISPs
Up to 200MP single camera
Up to 8K/30FPS video recording
RAM and Storage: LPDDR5 RAM — 3200 MHz, UFS 3.1
Connectivity: Snapdragon X65 5G modem, downlink: 10 Gbps
Qualcomm FastConnect 6900, Wi-Fi 6E (peak speed: 3.6 Gbps), Bluetooth 5.3
Notable Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 Smartphones
Some popular smartphones using the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 include the Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra, Xiaomi 12 Pro, OnePlus 10 Pro, Vivo X80 Pro, Realme GT 2 Pro, and iQOO 9 Pro.
Tags: Qualcomm, Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra, Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1
March 31, 2025
Expectations for MediaTek Dimensity 9400e Performance and Features
Key Takeaways
1. MediaTek is rebranding its upcoming chip from Dimensity 9350 to Dimensity 9400e, positioning it closer to flagship offerings.
2. The Dimensity 9400e is expected to outperform the Dimensity 9300+ with enhanced clock speeds and an all-big-core CPU strategy.
3. The chip will likely retain the Immortalis-G720 GPU and see improvements in AI performance through optimized architecture.
4. Manufacturing on TSMC’s 4nm process could enhance efficiency, power management, and thermal performance.
5. The Dimensity 9400e is expected to power mid-premium smartphones like the OnePlus Ace 5V and Realme devices, intensifying competition in the sub-flagship market.
MediaTek is gearing up for a strategic shift in the competitive sub-flagship market, taking cues from Qualcomm. Initially anticipated to be released as the Dimensity 9350, this chip is now likely set to debut as the Dimensity 9400e. This rebranding indicates that MediaTek aims to position this new model closer to its flagship offerings rather than merely adding another option to the mid-high tier Dimensity 9300 range.
Performance Expectations
Leaked information from reliable Chinese source Digital Chat Station suggests that the Dimensity 9400e will provide real performance improvements, not just a marketing gimmick. It’s rumored to be deserving of the label “9300++,” hinting at its capability to exceed the already enhanced Dimensity 9300+.
Core Configuration
At the core of the Dimensity 9400e, it’s believed to feature the same configuration as the 9300 and 9300+: one Cortex-X4 prime core, three Cortex-X4 performance cores, and four Cortex-A720 cores. This totals eight performance-oriented cores without any efficiency cores—showcasing MediaTek’s commitment to its all-big-core CPU strategy, first introduced with the 9300.
What sets this version apart? Enhanced clock speeds. The 9400e is expected to push these frequencies beyond those of the 9300+, which already had the prime Cortex-X4 clocked at 3.4GHz. This change could result in noticeable improvements in burst performance and multitasking capabilities. Anticipate benchmark results that may surpass those of the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 and potentially challenge Qualcomm’s upcoming 8s Gen 4, which also aims for the sub-flagship market.
Graphics and AI Advancements
There’s currently no official word regarding changes to the GPU; however, the Dimensity 9400e is likely to keep the Immortalis-G720 GPU, which has shown strong performance in the 9300 series, particularly with its 46% better ray tracing support. Incremental boosts in AI performance can also be expected, likely owing to optimized tuning of MediaTek’s APU 790 and enhancements in its “NeuroPilot” architecture.
Efficiency and Manufacturing
Efficiency is another important aspect of this chip. The Dimensity 9400e might be manufactured using TSMC’s 4nm process node, similar to its predecessors. While specifics remain vague, any improvements in power management or thermal performance could have a significant impact—especially for a chip that emphasizes high performance across all cores.
Future Devices
The Dimensity 9400e is poised to power a variety of performance-oriented mid-premium Android smartphones expected to launch later this year. Leading this lineup might be the OnePlus Ace 5V, a device rumored to feature an impressive 7,000mAh battery and a flat 1.5K display. This model is likely the successor to the Ace 3V, which was rebranded as the Nord 4 for international markets. It’s reasonable to assume that the Ace 5V could eventually make its way outside of China as the Nord 5.
Realme is also reportedly looking to adopt the 9400e, making this chip a formidable player in the upper-midrange segment where performance and value meet.
MediaTek’s Competitive Strategy
MediaTek’s choice to rename the 9350 to Dimensity 9400e mirrors Qualcomm’s rebranding approach with the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 (previously known as the 8s Elite). Both companies are merging the lines between flagship and sub-flagship categories, providing near-top-tier performance in devices that don’t necessarily come with hefty price tags.
This strategy is a wise one. With the Dimensity 9400e, MediaTek could sustain the positive momentum from its successful 9300 series and demonstrate that it can compete in the high-performance arena alongside Qualcomm. Furthermore, this sets the stage for a more crowded and competitive premium mid-range smartphone market in 2025.
No official date for the launch has been disclosed yet, but if the leaks hold true, MediaTek is close to making an announcement. If the expected performance and efficiency improvements come to fruition, the Dimensity 9400e could emerge as the sub-flagship chip to watch this year.
Additionally, MediaTek is scheduled to unveil the Dimensity 9400+ on April 11th, which has already appeared in various benchmark listings.
Tags: Dimensity 9400e, MediaTek, Qualcomm
March 29, 2025
Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 Core Architecture and AnTuTu Score Leak
Key Takeaways
1. The Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 will be built using TSMC’s advanced 3nm N3P process, enhancing performance over the previous model.
2. It features a 2+6 core arrangement with two primary cores and six performance cores, utilizing Arm’s latest v9 architecture for improved AI processing and computational photography.
3. The GPU will include an upgraded Adreno 840, though specific clock speeds and capabilities are not yet provided.
4. The chip has achieved an impressive AnTuTu score of 3.8 million points, indicating over a 30% performance increase compared to the previous Snapdragon 8 Elite.
5. This new chip is expected to be central to next year’s high-end Android flagship devices, with an official announcement possibly coming in October.
A recent leak might have provided a clear view of Qualcomm’s upcoming top chip, the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2. This new chip is set to bring a noticeable increase in performance compared to the older version.
Specifications Revealed
According to the reliable leaker Digital Chat Station, the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 (model SM88550) will be manufactured using TSMC’s cutting-edge 3nm N3P process. It will come with a 2+6 core arrangement, featuring two primary cores alongside six performance cores. This layout is similar to what’s found in the current Snapdragon 8 Elite, but this time it will leverage Arm’s latest v9 architecture. The leaker mentions that the chip will support SME1 and SVE2.
These are advanced instruction set extensions from Arm’s v9 designed to enhance functions like AI processing on devices and computational photography, a step up from the Arm’s v8 architecture used in the 8 Elite.
GPU Enhancements
Additionally, the GPU is set to see some upgrades too. Reports suggest the chip will include an Adreno 840, but there are no specifics yet regarding clock speeds or capabilities.
In terms of performance, the leaked information is impressive. The Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 is said to have already achieved an AnTuTu score of 3.8 million points. This represents a more than 30% jump compared to the highest-performing Snapdragon 8 Elite device from March. While benchmark scores don’t always reflect real-world performance, this increase is significant.
Future Implications
These preliminary leaks indicate that the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 is not just a minor update. With the transition to Arm v9 and enhanced computing power, Qualcomm seems to be preparing for devices that will utilize AI and real-time processing more extensively.
The Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 is anticipated to be the driving force behind next year’s high-end Android flagship models. Qualcomm hasn’t yet revealed a launch date, but an official announcement could come as soon as October.
Tags: ARM V9, Qualcomm, Snapdragon 8 Elite 2
March 29, 2025
Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 Rumored to Outperform Snapdragon 8 Elite
Key Takeaways
1. Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 may be delayed until October, with ongoing updates shared by leaker Digital Chat Station.
2. The chipset is expected to use TSMC’s N3P nodes for improved efficiency and will feature an Adreno 840 GPU, along with two prime and six performance CPU cores based on Oryon architecture.
3. It will support ARM’s Scalable Matrix Extension 1 (SME 1) and Scalable Vector Extension 2 (SVE2), indicating a shift to ArmV9 architecture for enhanced machine learning capabilities.
4. Performance expectations suggest the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 could reach over 3.8 million points on AnTuTu V10, compared to 2.6 million for the Snapdragon 8 Elite.
5. A 26% performance boost is anticipated between the Snapdragon 8 Elite and the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2, marking significant advancements in capability.
The expected release of Qualcomm’s next-generation flagship chipset seems to be a bit delayed. Recent whispers suggest that the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2, also known as Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 2, may not launch until autumn, with October being pointed out as the likely month. However, Digital Chat Station is continuing to share bits of info regarding the chipset on Chinese social media platforms.
Specifications and Features
To summarize, the leaker has previously indicated that Qualcomm is using TSMC’s N3P nodes for the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2, which is expected to be more efficient than the N3E node powering the Snapdragon 8 Elite. Additionally, this same source claims to have discovered that the chipset will come equipped with an Adreno 840 GPU, along with two prime and six performance CPU cores which are likely based on Qualcomm’s upcoming Oryon architecture.
Machine Learning Enhancements
Digital Chat Station also mentions that the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 will incorporate support for ARM’s Scalable Matrix Extension 1 (SME 1) and Scalable Vector Extension 2 (SVE2), enhancing its machine learning capabilities. If this is accurate, it indicates that the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 will utilize the ArmV9 architecture, while the Snapdragon 8 Elite relies on the earlier Armv8 architecture.
Performance Expectations
These advancements are expected to push the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 beyond 3.8 million points on AnTuTu V10. For comparison, the Snapdragon 8 Elite has recorded a median score of 2.6 million in tests conducted so far using devices like the ROG Phone 9 Pro, OnePlus 13, and Nubia Z70 Ultra (currently priced at $769 on Amazon), among others. On the other hand, Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Reference Device achieved a score of 3 million in AnTuTu V10. Even if Digital Chat Station is talking about a reference device, reaching 3.8 million would signify a 26% performance boost between generations.
Source:
Link
Tags: Adreno 840, Qualcomm, Snapdragon 8 Elite 2