Tag: Qualcomm

November 23, 2024
Qualcomm Unveils Next-Gen Snapdragon X Series Chipsets
Qualcomm has launched a large number of Snapdragon X chipsets this year, and they have also rolled out the architecturally similar Snapdragon 8 Elite. Currently, Qualcomm provides the following chipsets to Windows OEMs:
Interestingly, there might be even more SKUs on the way. While the company hasn’t made any public announcements yet, they hinted at this during Qualcomm Investor Day, where XDA Developers were present.
New Chip Details
Sadly, Qualcomm didn’t share much information during the event aside from the fact that these upcoming chips will have the same 45 TOPS NPU as the Snapdragon X Plus and Snapdragon X Elite variants. From what XDA Developers discovered, it seems there is a new, more entry-level chipset intended to be positioned beneath the Snapdragon X Plus 8-core. It’s probably going to be named Snapdragon X.
Speculation on Future Chipsets
Recent rumors suggest that Qualcomm is working on at least three ‘Snapdragon X’ chipsets. There’s particular evidence pointing towards the existence of the X1P-24-100, X1P-39-100, and X1P-40-100. However, it’s uncertain whether all these SKUs will actually hit the market. Additionally, there have been no updates on the rumored X1P-56-100 and X1P-62-100 so far. Regardless, these new Snapdragon X chipsets are expected to power laptops priced under $600, which would be a significant drop from the least expensive Surface Pro 11, currently priced at $800 on Amazon.
Source: Link,Link,Link,Link,
Tags: Qualcomm, Snapdragon X, Snapdragon X Plus
November 12, 2024
Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 vs Dimensity 9500: 25% Performance Boost
The dust hasn’t even settled on Qualcomm’s latest flagship chip, the Snapdragon 8 Elite, and already there are rumors about its successor. The Snapdragon 8 Elite provides a significant performance boost compared to its predecessor, largely due to the transition to Oryon cores. Recently, a leak has emerged suggesting that Qualcomm might be looking to raise the bar even further with the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2.
Performance Expectations
As per leaker Jukanlosreve, who references sources from Korea, both the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 and MediaTek’s forthcoming Dimensity 9500 could achieve single-core scores nearing 4,000 on Geekbench 6. To put things in perspective, the current Snapdragon 8 Elite scores around 3,200 on the same benchmark. If this leak is accurate, the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 could see a performance improvement of 25%—a notable upgrade, especially considering the already exceptional performance of the 8 Elite.
Thermal Management Challenges
Yet, Qualcomm has a track record of balancing high performance with thermal management, and the 8 Elite is no different. While it excels in speed, it also tends to generate more heat than earlier models due to its clock speed of 4.32 GHz. Thus, an important question for the 8 Elite 2 is how Qualcomm plans to handle these expected performance increases while keeping temperatures in check.
Manufacturing Insights
Previous rumors indicated that the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 might be produced by both TSMC and Samsung. However, another leak from Jukanlosreve asserts that TSMC will take on the role of the exclusive manufacturer for Qualcomm’s upcoming flagship SoC. The N3P process from TSMC is rumored to deliver enhanced performance and improved power efficiency compared to the N3 node utilized in the 8 Elite. Whether these enhancements will address the thermal challenges that typically come with a performance boost remains to be seen.
It’s still quite early, and these are merely rumors for now. Given that the current generation is still recent in the market, it will likely be a while before we see more definitive information. We will keep you posted as new updates come to light.
Tags: Geekbench 6, Qualcomm, Snapdragon 8 Elite 2
November 12, 2024
Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 Leak: 20% CPU Boost for Galaxy S26 Chipset
The Snapdragon 8 Elite appears to be a fantastic improvement over the previous Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, with Qualcomm shifting from standard ARM cores to Oryon, leading to a 30% boost in CPU performance. Although it’s still early in the game, a recent leak has given us a glimpse of what the upcoming Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 might bring.
Performance Expectations
According to leaker Jukanlosreve, along with information from Korean sources, both the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 and MediaTek’s Dimensity 9400 are projected to achieve single-core scores around 4000 on Geekbench 6. For context, the Snapdragon 8 Elite usually scores near 3200 on this benchmark, suggesting a possible 25% performance increase for its next iteration.
Thermal Management Concerns
It remains uncertain how Qualcomm will maintain acceptable temperatures while enhancing performance. Despite the Snapdragon 8 Elite’s impressive peak capabilities, it has not been highly regarded for its thermal management, as the chipset operates at higher temperatures than its predecessor due to a significant 4.32 GHz clock speed.
Manufacturing Insights
Interestingly, the leak indicates that the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 will not be produced solely by TSMC. Qualcomm plans to collaborate with both TSMC and Samsung, with the chip being manufactured on the SF2 and N3P nodes. However, it’s wise to approach this information with some skepticism.
Tags: Geekbench 6, Qualcomm, Snapdragon 8 Elite 2
November 1, 2024
Realme Confirms Last-Minute Name Change to Snapdragon 8 Elite
Realme is now distributing review units for its inaugural Snapdragon 8 Elite flagship device, the Realme GT 7 Pro. This latest System on Chip (SoC) is Qualcomm’s first high-end mobile product featuring its proprietary Oryon cores, though its current title came as a surprise to many.
Surprise Name Change
After the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 from last year, this new 3 nm flagship SoC was initially expected to be called the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4. Realme also anticipated this naming convention, and the review unit of the GT 7 Pro that Android Authority obtained does not feature "Snapdragon 8 Elite" on the packaging at all.
Android Authority reached out for clarification, and a representative from Realme explained that Qualcomm failed to inform them about the name change ahead of designing the GT 7 Pro’s packaging. The representative mentioned that they only received confirmation about the Snapdragon 8 Elite name a few days prior to the Snapdragon Summit. Interestingly, a well-known Weibo tipster, Digital Chat Station, had hinted at the name change in early October. However, it seems Qualcomm might not have been entirely certain about the new name until it was nearly time for the launch event.
Timing Issues
Due to the last-minute update regarding the name change, Realme was unable to reprint the boxes meant for reviewers before the official unveiling. Nevertheless, a company representative assured that the reference to Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 was taken out of the retail boxes that were mass-produced.
It’s important to note that not every smartphone manufacturer may have faced the same issues with this sudden name alteration, as Realme possibly prepared its review unit packaging earlier than others. The company also indicated that the GT 7 Pro will be the first Snapdragon 8 Elite flagship phone available broadly, with plans for a release in India and Europe shortly after its launch in China.
Tags: Qualcomm, Realme GT 7 Pro, Snapdragon 8 Elite
October 26, 2024
Samsung and Apple Rumored to Acquire Intel
Earlier this month, news surfaced that Qualcomm was considering acquiring Intel due to its disappointing performance. The company reportedly missed out on a multi-billion dollar deal with PlayStation. The underwhelming Arrow Lake launch and the cancellation of certain architectures may have further complicated matters for the chip giant. Now, according to Moore’s Law is Dead, referencing industry insiders, it seems other companies have shown interest in Intel too.
Potential Buyers for Intel
Apple and Samsung are two firms that are rumored to be interested in merging with or acquiring Intel. Tom suggests that both companies might be targeting Intel for its foundry services. This strategy could help Apple lessen its dependency on TSMC for high-end chips. Moreover, producing chips within the US would be a significant advantage. However, this plan could be thwarted if Intel opts to spin off its foundry division into a distinct entity.
Samsung’s Strategic Interest
In a similar vein, Samsung could leverage Intel Foundry’s intellectual property to enhance its own manufacturing capabilities. Recent reports indicate that Samsung Foundry’s latest nodes are struggling, with yields as low as 20% on its cutting-edge 3GAP process. While it’s possible that this figure has improved, it’s still not at a commercially viable level, as seen in the delays or possible cancellations surrounding the Exynos 2500.
Caution Advised
As always, these discussions should be regarded as mere speculation until more evidence emerges. Additionally, Intel has recently collaborated with AMD to create the x86 EAG. Furthermore, it has secured significant contracts from the United States Department of Defense for military-grade chips, along with Amazon Web Services as a client for Intel 18A. This could provide Intel with the financial boost it needs to remain operational in the short term.
Despite some setbacks in the desktop sector, Intel has seen success with Lunar Lake, and the Arrow Lake laptop is also appearing to be quite competitive. Looking ahead, Panther Lake, set to release next year, has the potential to challenge Apple in terms of performance-per-watt, thanks to improvements in 18A like RibbonFET and backside power delivery.
Moore’s Law is Dead on YouTube.
Tags: Apple, Intel Foundry, Qualcomm

October 24, 2024

Snapdragon 8 Elite vs Snapdragon 8 Gen 3: Flagship Comparison

Qualcomm has recently introduced its latest flagship processor, the Snapdragon 8 Elite, which is set to power many high-end Android smartphones as we approach 2025. This new chip features significant improvements that put the Dimensity 9400 and Apple’s A18 Pro on notice.

Performance Overview

The Snapdragon 8 Elite boasts impressive claims from Qualcomm regarding its speed, efficiency, and artificial intelligence features. However, how does it stack up against its predecessor, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3? Is it worth upgrading to the Elite version? Let’s take a closer look to guide you in selecting the best chipset for your next mobile device.

Specifications Comparison

Feature	Snapdragon 8 Elite	Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
Announced	October 2024	October 2023
Part number	SM8750-AB	SM8650-AB, SM8650-AC
Process node	3nm	3nm
Manufacturer	TSMC	TSMC
CPU	2 x Oryon @ 4.32GHz	1 x Cortex-X4 @ 3.3GHz
	6 x Oryon @ 3.53GHz	3 x Cortex-A720 @ 3.15GHz
		2 x Cortex-A720 @ 2.96GHz
		2 x Cortex-A520 @ 2.27GHz
GPU	Adreno 720 GPU	Adreno 750 GPU
Camera	Qualcomm Spectra AI Triple ISP	Qualcomm Spectra Cognitive ISP
Memory	LPDDR5x at 5.3GHz (up to 24GB)	LPDDR5x at 4.8GHz (up to 24GB)
Connectivity	Snapdragon X80 5G modem	Snapdragon X75 5G modem

Benchmarking Insights

In terms of performance benchmarks, early results indicate that the Snapdragon 8 Elite significantly outperforms the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. However, it does not surpass the Apple A18 Pro, though it does leave the MediaTek Dimensity 9400 behind convincingly. The Snapdragon 8 Elite shows its strength particularly in multi-core tests on Geekbench, where it outshines both the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 and the A18 Pro by a noticeable margin.

The Snapdragon 8 Elite continues to lead in performance benchmarks, closely followed by MediaTek’s Dimensity 9400. Both chips have shown they can outperform the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 and Apple A18 Pro by a wide margin in AnTuTu tests.

CPU and Architecture

The Snapdragon 8 Elite is built using TSMC’s 3nm technology, whereas the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 is made with a 4nm process. This change in manufacturing improves both performance and energy efficiency. A major highlight of the Snapdragon 8 Elite is the introduction of Qualcomm’s Oryon cores, which were originally designed for Windows laptops. Qualcomm is now bringing these performance and efficiency gains to mobile devices.

The Prime Oryon core in the Snapdragon 8 Elite has a peak clock speed of 4.32GHz, surpassing the 3.3GHz of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. The Snapdragon 8 Elite also boasts 24MB of cache memory, marking it as the largest in mobile chipsets. Qualcomm claims that the Snapdragon 8 Elite offers a 45% performance increase and 44% better power savings compared to its predecessor.

GPU Enhancements

Not only does the Snapdragon 8 Elite focus on CPU advancements, but it also comes with significant GPU improvements. It features the Adreno 830 GPU, which provides a 40% performance boost compared to the Adreno 750 in the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3.

With this increase in performance, battery usage could rise, but the new sliced architecture allows for a 40% improvement in energy efficiency. Additionally, Qualcomm promises a 35% enhancement in ray tracing capabilities. The Snapdragon 8 Elite also introduces Unreal Engine 5’s Nanite technology to mobile gaming, enabling high-quality 3D environments.

Advancements in AI

Qualcomm continues to elevate AI features with the Snapdragon 8 Elite. This iteration includes an advanced Hexagon NPU that is said to be 45% faster and provides 45% greater performance per watt. This upgraded NPU can handle more complex tasks, allowing on-device AI assistants to work better without needing an internet connection.

Camera Improvements

Camera functionalities have seen significant upgrades in the Snapdragon 8 Elite. It features a triple 18-bit AI ISP, compared to the Cognitive ISP of its predecessor. The new chip can support a single camera up to 320MP, an increase from the 200MP limit of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. With Zero Shutter Lag enabled, it can now capture triple 48MP shots, as opposed to the previous 36MP capability.

One of the standout features of the Snapdragon 8 Elite is its limitless real-time segmentation, which allows for better object recognition in images and videos. It can perform complex adjustments, enhancing the quality of captured content. The chip also supports 8K HDR video at 60fps and improves slow-motion video recording from 720p to 1080p.

Connectivity Features

The Snapdragon X80 5G Modem also introduces a 30% enhancement in location accuracy, while peak download and upload speeds remain unchanged. Additionally, the new Qualcomm FastConnect 7900 system provides AI-enhanced Wi-Fi 7 and better energy efficiency. The Snapdragon 8 Elite supports Bluetooth 6, while its predecessor is limited to Bluetooth 5.4, along with Ultra Wideband (UWB) for improved location tracking.

Initial Impressions

Though we haven’t yet tested a device featuring the Snapdragon 8 Elite, the early benchmark results and Qualcomm’s promises suggest notable improvements in both performance and efficiency. It appears to be a leading chip for Android devices, even outperforming Apple’s flagship A18 Pro in benchmarks.

Xiaomi 15 will be the first smartphone to be equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Elite, followed by other brands such as Realme, iQOO, Honor, and Samsung.

Tags: Qualcomm, Snapdragon 8 Elite, Xiaomi 15

October 23, 2024
ARM Ends Qualcomm Chip Design License Agreement
With a legal conflict on the horizon for December, ARM Holdings plc has initiated a confrontation with Qualcomm by terminating their architectural design agreement.
Cancellation of License
According to BNN Bloomberg, ARM has issued Qualcomm a 60-day cancellation notice. Should this cancellation become effective, Qualcomm will be forced to cease the sale of products that utilize ARM technology. This move could significantly impact a profitable revenue stream that includes various devices used in Android smartphones and other portable gadgets. Among these products are the Snapdragon X Elite and 8 Elite, which are based on Nuvia technology.
Background of the Dispute
The conflict traces back to 2022 when ARM took legal action against Qualcomm and its subsidiary Nuvia for creating custom Phoenix cores without obtaining permission from ARM. Prior to Qualcomm’s acquisition of Nuvia, there was an agreement that allowed Nuvia to modify ARM’s designs to develop these custom cores. However, this agreement was rendered void after the acquisition, leading ARM to revoke all of Nuvia’s licenses in March 2022.
Statements from the Companies
ARM contended that Qualcomm “tried to transfer Nuvia’s licenses without ARM’s permission.” In contrast, Qualcomm asserted that ARM lacks the “contractual or any other rights to interfere with Qualcomm’s or Nuvia’s innovations.” Although newer Qualcomm chips do not incorporate ARM cores, they still rely on the ARM instruction set as a bridge between hardware and software components.
In a statement to Sam Mobile, a spokesperson from Qualcomm remarked, “This is just more of the same from ARM – more baseless threats intended to intimidate a long-standing partner, meddle with our leading CPUs, and hike up royalty fees despite the extensive rights under our architecture license.”
Tags: Arm Holdings, Qualcomm, Snapdragon X Elite
October 22, 2024
Snapdragon 8 Elite vs Dimensity 9400: Qualcomm vs MediaTek Comparison
Qualcomm has just revealed the Snapdragon 8 Elite, the high-end processor set to drive the next wave of flagship smartphones. This announcement comes just weeks after MediaTek showcased its own premium Dimensity 9400 SoC. We previously put together a preliminary comparison based on rumors and leaks regarding these two processors. Now, let’s take a closer look at how the Snapdragon 8 Elite stacks up against the Dimensity 9400.
Snapdragon 8 Elite vs Dimensity 9400: Specs Overview
The new Dimensity 9400 from MediaTek is built around their 2nd Gen All Big Core architecture, which features the robust ARM Cortex-X925 core. These cores operate at speeds exceeding 3.62GHz, and the chip integrates three Cortex X4 cores along with four Cortex A720 cores. This setup allows the Dimensity 9400 to deliver a 35% enhancement in single-core performance and a 28% increase in multi-core performance when compared to its predecessor, the Dimensity 9300.
It is manufactured using TSMC’s 2nd Gen 3nm technology, which provides up to 40% better power efficiency. The new chip also comes with an advanced NPU that enhances AI capabilities and includes a 12-core ARM Immortalis-G925 GPU, which boasts 40% faster ray tracing capabilities.
Snapdragon 8 Elite’s Features
Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite follows a similar path with its All Big Core architecture. It features eight cores, consisting of 2 prime cores that run at a remarkable 4.32GHz, along with 6 performance cores clocked at 3.53GHz. This new chip is also built on TSMC’s 3nm process, indicating a 45% boost in CPU performance and a 44% enhancement in power efficiency.
Thanks to its upgraded Adreno 830 GPU, it also sees a 40% improvement in performance and power efficiency, alongside a 35% increase in ray tracing speed. Notably, the Snapdragon 8 Elite supports Unreal Engine 5.3 and its Nanite virtualized geometry system, which is a big plus for gaming enthusiasts.
Tags: Dimensity 9400, Qualcomm, Snapdragon 8 Elite
October 22, 2024
Qualcomm Unveils Snapdragon 8 Elite with Oryon CPU
Qualcomm has started this year’s Snapdragon Summit by revealing the chipset that will power the next wave of premium Android smartphones. As anticipated by recent leaks, Qualcomm has once more changed the name of its top mobile chipset, just a short time after it introduced the ‘Snapdragon 8 Gen’ label.
New Name and Features
This time, Qualcomm has opted for ‘Snapdragon 8 Elite’, though it is still unclear if they will use generational or performance-based endings in the future. Observant individuals will notice that the new chipset shares a name with Qualcomm’s most potent laptop SoC, which seems to be more than just a coincidence, hinting at strategic marketing alignment.
Technical Specifications
According to Qualcomm, the Snapdragon 8 Elite is unique as it incorporates Oryon CPU cores, moving away from the usual ARM cores found in the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 and its earlier versions. As depicted in the graphic provided, the Snapdragon 8 Elite includes two prime cores running at 4.32 GHz, alongside six performance cores capped at 3.53 GHz. In essence, the Snapdragon 8 Elite presents a CPU setup similar to MediaTek’s Dimensity 9400 by completely eliminating efficiency cores.
Furthermore, the Snapdragon 8 Elite utilizes TSMC’s 3 nm technology and features 12 MB of L2 cache distributed across its prime and performance cores. Qualcomm asserts that this new chipset surpasses the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 by 45% in both single and multi-threaded CPU performance. Additionally, the Snapdragon 8 Elite claims a 40% increase in GPU speed and a 45% improvement in NPU speed.
Efficiency and Compatibility
Despite its performance boosts, the Snapdragon 8 Elite is reported to achieve power efficiency gains of 27% for the entire SoC, 40% for its GPU, and 45% for its CPU. The new ‘sliced architecture’ GPU of the chipset is designed to support Unreal Engine 5.3, Nanite, and the Chaos physics system. Also, Qualcomm has included the Snapdragon X80 5G modem, which enables Wi-Fi 7 and a 4×6 MIMO antenna, allowing for downlink speeds of 5.8 Gbit/s and 10 Gbit/s, respectively.
Interestingly, the Snapdragon 8 Elite will support up to 24 GB of RAM and is expected to provide up to 30% greater location accuracy due to its triple-band GNSS module. Up until now, Qualcomm has announced that companies like ASUS, Honor, iQOO, OnePlus, OPPO, realme, Samsung, Vivo, and Xiaomi will be introducing the first devices powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite in the next few weeks.
Tags: Qualcomm, Snapdragon 8 Elite
October 14, 2024
OnePlus 13 Custom Snapdragon Chip Outperforms Apple A18 Pro Efficiency
Qualcomm is gearing up to unveil its next high-end mobile system on a chip (SoC) during the Snapdragon Summit event. There’s still some mystery surrounding the chip’s name, whether it will be called Snapdragon 8 Gen 4, Snapdragon 8 Extreme Edition, or something entirely different. However, the OnePlus 13 is anticipated to be one of the earliest smartphones to utilize this new chip.
OnePlus Teases Custom Chip
Although OnePlus hasn’t disclosed many details about its new flagship device, an employee named Cai Zuxuan shared an intriguing hint on Weibo. Zuxuan mentioned that the phone will include a specially designed Snapdragon chip. What’s particularly exciting is Zuxuan’s assertion that this custom SoC will deliver enhanced energy efficiency.
Power Efficiency Claims
Specifically referencing internal data from OnePlus, the employee stated that the custom Snapdragon SoC could surpass the Apple A18 Pro regarding power efficiency. According to Cai Zuxuan, this achievement would allow Qualcomm to regain its leading position in performance rankings.
Zuxuan’s post also referred to a “public version” of the SoC, which is said to be inferior to the custom version. This isn’t the first instance of people discussing two separate versions of what might be the Snapdragon 8 Extreme Edition. A datasheet that appeared online in August hinted at two models: SM8750 and SM8750P.
Variants and Performance
Among these, the SM8750P is thought to be the more advanced model, with the “P” likely representing “Performance.” Qualcomm has adopted a similar approach in the past with its flagship SoCs. For example, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy is a slightly overclocked version of the standard SoC. This overclocked chip later found its way into Nubia smartphones and currently leads the AnTuTu benchmark.
However, Cai Zuxuan emphasizes that this time, efficiency will be just as important as performance. The good news is that Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Summit is scheduled to kick off on October 21, which is just around the corner. So, you won’t have to wait long to discover how Qualcomm’s 3 nm smartphone chip stacks up against its rivals.
Cai Zuxuan on Weibo via: InnoGyan
Tags: Oneplus 13, Qualcomm, Snapdragon 8 Gen 4