Tag: Qualcomm Snapdragon X Series

  • Snapdragon X Seizes 6.5% Geekbench Share in First Month

    Snapdragon X Seizes 6.5% Geekbench Share in First Month

    Qualcomm’s entry into the Windows on Arm (WoA) laptop arena with its Snapdragon X series has gained considerable attention since its debut on June 18th.

    Data from the performance testing site Geekbench indicates that over 81,000 tests were conducted worldwide in the past month, with 6.5% involving Snapdragon X devices. Although this percentage is lower compared to entrenched competitors like Intel and AMD, it’s a commendable performance for a new entrant.

    Energy Efficiency and Battery Life

    The Snapdragon X is notable for its energy efficiency, a key selling point emphasized by both Microsoft and leading PC manufacturers. Benchmark results consistently demonstrate that laptops powered by the Snapdragon X can achieve over 15 hours of battery life, which is quite remarkable.

    Moreover, Snapdragon X laptops are the first to receive certification for Microsoft’s Copilot+ productivity suite, potentially enhancing workflow efficiency.

    Initial Challenges and Hiccups

    Nevertheless, the Snapdragon X launch has encountered several issues. The eagerly awaited Windows Recall feature was canceled prior to release due to privacy and security concerns.

    Additionally, Snapdragon X Elite notebooks have faced compatibility problems with certain applications due to their ARM-based architecture. Their integrated graphics performance also falls short when compared to Intel’s Arc offerings. Moreover, software developer support for the processor’s on-device AI processing is still in its early stages, limiting the AI capabilities of the Snapdragon X.

    Market Impact and Future Prospects

    Despite these obstacles, the introduction of the Snapdragon X is a positive development for consumers. Much like how Apple’s M-series chips shook up the laptop market, the Snapdragon X is pushing established players like Intel and AMD to innovate and produce more powerful notebooks.

    Although the Snapdragon X currently may not cater to the needs of power users, there is optimism that Qualcomm will continue to advance its technology. Should the platform address its current issues, the future of the notebook processor market could witness a compelling three-way competition for supremacy.

    Tags: , ,
  • Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 to Feature MediaTek Chips, No Qualcomm

    Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 to Feature MediaTek Chips, No Qualcomm

    Just a few days back, speculation suggested that some models of the Galaxy Tab S10 might be powered by MediaTek processors. However, it now seems Samsung is making a significant shift by equipping all of its upcoming high-end tablets in the Tab S10 series with MediaTek 9300+ chips.

    Reliable leakster Ice Universe has revealed that every variant of the Galaxy Tab S10 will move away from Qualcomm’s Snapdragon processors. Initially, the rumor was that only one model in the Tab S10 lineup might use the MediaTek Dimensity chip. This marks a complete strategy overhaul for Samsung, with the tablets expected to launch in October 2024.

    Strategic Decision for Cost Savings

    This decision is likely influenced by several factors. One key reason could be the increasing cost of Qualcomm’s high-end processors in recent years. By switching to MediaTek, Samsung could be aiming for a cost-saving measure that allows them to offer the Tab S10 series at more competitive prices.

    The US version of the Galaxy Tab S10+ was also found in Geekbench’s database, featuring the Dimensity 9300+ processor. This is MediaTek’s current flagship chip, built on a 4nm process, and includes eight high-performance CPU cores along with a robust GPU.

    Technical Specifications of the Dimensity 9300+

    • CPU: 1x Cortex-X4 core @ 3.4GHz, 3x Cortex-X4 cores @ 2.85GHz, 4x Cortex-A720 cores @ 2GHz
    • GPU: ARM Immortalis-G720 MC12
    • Display Support: 4K @ 120Hz with HDR gaming
    • Memory Support: LPDDR5X/LPDDR5T DRAM and UFS 4.0 storage
    • Connectivity: mmWave & sub-6GHz 5G, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, NFC, USB Type-C
    • Positioning: tri-band GPS, quad-band BDS, tri-band Galileo, dual-band QZSS, GLONASS, NavIC
    • Camera ISP: Supports up to 320MP sensors, 8K 30fps, or 4K 60fps video recording

    Future Implications

    Whether this complete switch to MediaTek will be advantageous for Samsung and its customers is yet to be determined. With the official launch several months away, it will be intriguing to observe how the Tab S10 series fares and positions itself in the highly competitive tablet market.

    Tags: , ,
  • Upcoming Lenovo Laptops with Snapdragon X Elite CPUs

    Upcoming Lenovo Laptops with Snapdragon X Elite CPUs

    Several upcoming Lenovo laptops appear to be incorporating the latest Qualcomm technology, based on recently revealed Bluetooth certification on May 27. These laptops, which utilize the Qualcomm NCM825 network card (WCN785x, also known as FastConnect 7800), include:

    • ThinkBook 16 Gen 7 QOYYOGA Air 14s Q8X9
    • Yoga Slim 7 14Q8X9
    • ThinkPad T14s Flex Gen 1
    • ThinkPad T14s Gen 5
    • ThinkPad T14s Gen 6
    • ThinkPad T14 Gen 5

    Confirmed Snapdragon X Elite Models

    Notably, the YOGA Air 14s Q8X9, Yoga Slim 7 14Q8X9, and ThinkPad T14s Gen 6 are already confirmed to be the first Lenovo laptops powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite processor. The ThinkBook 16 Gen 7 QOY is also likely to feature a Qualcomm Snapdragon X series processor. The ThinkPad T14s Flex Gen 1 is anticipated to be a variant of the T14s with a 360-degree hinge for convertible functionality.

    Uncertain Snapdragon Integration

    The question remains regarding the Snapdragon processors in the remaining listed models (ThinkPad T14s Gen 5 and ThinkPad T14 Gen 5). These could either utilize Qualcomm network cards exclusively or potentially house Snapdragon processors as well. For more concrete details such as specifications, pricing, and release dates, official announcements from Lenovo are crucial. We will just have to wait for the same.

    Tags: , ,
  • ASUS to Launch Snapdragon X Elite-Powered Laptop on March 20

    ASUS to Launch Snapdragon X Elite-Powered Laptop on March 20

    Microsoft is set to unveil the Surface Pro 10 and Surface Laptop 6 on May 20, both powered by Snapdragon X series chips. This development has been highly anticipated, with Microsoft being joined by ASUS in this endeavor. ASUS has confirmed its participation in the virtual launch event scheduled for May 20, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. PST, where new Windows on Arm machines will be showcased.

    ASUS Joins Virtual Launch Event

    The collaboration for the launch event includes Qualcomm, Microsoft, and ASUS, with the possibility of other manufacturers like Lenovo also making contributions to the Windows on Arm platform.

    Focus on AI Innovation

    ASUS is gearing up for the event with the tagline "Next Level. AI Incredible," emphasizing innovative AI features and enhanced performance in their new Windows on Arm laptop, described as an 'ultraportable' premium device.

    Industry Collaboration and Features

    The virtual launch event will feature speakers from Qualcomm and Microsoft, shedding light on the advantages of the Windows on Arm platform and the integration of artificial intelligence in PCs. The event will highlight the joint efforts of these companies in revitalizing the Arm-based platform.

    Qualcomm has introduced two new Arm-based processors – the Snapdragon X Elite and the more budget-friendly Snapdragon X Plus. The X Elite chip boasts 12 Qualcomm Oryon CPU cores, while the X Plus offers 10 cores, albeit at slightly lower clock speeds. Initial benchmark listings suggest promising performance and power efficiency. However, the specifics of the tests and the accuracy of showcased capabilities remain subject to scrutiny. As laptop manufacturers begin incorporating these chips into their devices, the real-world performance of these new processors will soon be revealed.

    Tags: , ,
  • Qualcomm Developing Powerful Snapdragon X Plus Processor

    Qualcomm Developing Powerful Snapdragon X Plus Processor

    Qualcomm recently unveiled its latest Snapdragon X series of processors designed for Windows on Arm laptops. The lineup consists of four chipsets, with three falling under the Snapdragon X Elite tier and the fourth being the Snapdragon X Plus, aimed at more budget-friendly Windows laptops.

    Qualcomm's Plans for Snapdragon X Plus Lineup

    Industry insider Kamila Wojciechowska has hinted at potential future developments within Qualcomm's Snapdragon X Plus lineup. There are talks of a more powerful variant in the works, known as the X1P-42-100, which is set to feature eight Oryon CPU cores, an increase from the six cores found in the X1P-64-100. Interestingly, the X1P-42-100 is rumored to omit the four efficiency cores present in its predecessor.

    Enhanced Performance with Fewer PCIe Lanes

    While the X1P-42-100 promises improved performance, it is noted to offer fewer PCIe lanes compared to the X1P-64-100.

    Here is a table showcasing the specifications of all the SoCs in the Snapdragon X line:

    SoCPerformance CoresEfficiency CoresTurboGPU FrequencyVideo HardwarePCIe
    X1 Elite (X1E-84-100)8x Oryon – 3.8GHz4x Oryon – 3.8GHz4.2GHz1.5GHz4K 60 fps encode, 4K 120 fps decode8+4 lanes of PCIe
    X1 Elite (X1E-80-100)8x Oryon – 3.4GHz4x Oryon – 3.4GHz4.0GHz1.25GHz4K 60 fps encode, 4K 120 fps decode8+4 lanes of PCIe
    X1 Elite (X1E-78-100)8x Oryon – 3.4GHz4x Oryon – 3.4GHz–1.25GHz4K 60 fps encode, 4K 120 fps decode8+4 lanes of PCIe
    X1 Plus (X1P-64-100)6x Oryon – 3.4GHz4x Oryon – 3.4GHz–1.25GHz4K 60 fps encode, 4K 120 fps decode8+4 lanes of PCIe
    X1 Plus (X1P-42-100)8x Oryon – ?––?–4+4 lanes of PCIe

    The X1P-42-100 is anticipated to have limitations in video encoding and decoding capabilities, reportedly capped at 4K/30 FPS encoding and 4K/60 FPS decoding. In comparison, the X1P-64-100 is expected to support 4K/60 FPS encoding and 4K/120 FPS decoding. Specific details regarding the CPU clock speeds and GPU specifications of the X1P-42-100 are currently undisclosed.

    Qualcomm's Future Plans Beyond X Series

    In addition to the X series, Wojciechowska's leaks suggest Qualcomm is developing a server-grade chipset codenamed "SD1." This processor purportedly features 80 Oryon cores on a 9470-pin LGA socket and is manufactured using TSMC's 5nm (N5P) production process.

    The leak also indicates that the SD1 chipset will support 16 channels of DDR5-5600 RAM, offer 70 PCIe 5.0 lanes, and have the capability to run two chipsets simultaneously. Moreover, Wojciechowska mentions that the SD1 will integrate Compute Express Link (CXL) 1.1, although details about the silicon remain unclear at this stage.

    Tags: , ,
  • All about Qualcomm Snapdragon X Series Chip

    All about Qualcomm Snapdragon X Series Chip

    Qualcomm has introduced its latest Windows on ARM platform, the Snapdragon X series processor, boasting impressive performance and efficiency. The company’s goal is to emulate Apple’s success with its M-series chip and offer a compelling option for ARM-based Windows laptops.

    Snapdragon X Series Overview

    The Snapdragon X series consists of two main tiers: the high-performance Snapdragon X Elite and the budget-friendly Snapdragon X Plus. These SoCs are designed to cater to different market segments, providing users with a range of options based on their needs and preferences.

    Performance and Efficiency

    Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X series promises to deliver a balance of power and efficiency, similar to what users have come to expect from Apple’s M-series chips. By offering a variety of features and capabilities, Qualcomm aims to enhance the overall user experience on Windows on ARM devices.

    Conclusion

    With the introduction of the Snapdragon X series processors, Qualcomm is positioning itself as a key player in the Windows on ARM market. By providing a competitive alternative to Apple’s M-series chips, Qualcomm is aiming to drive innovation and choice in the laptop industry.

    All about Qualcomm Snapdragon X Series Chip
    Tags: ,