Tag: Qualcomm

  • Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 Launches, Matches Snapdragon 7s Gen 2

    Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 Launches, Matches Snapdragon 7s Gen 2

    Qualcomm has rolled out a new processor, the Snapdragon 6 Gen 3. This chipset, which goes by the code name SM6475-AB, was introduced quietly by the company. It’s designed to be the powerhouse for budget-friendly smartphones. Interestingly, this chipset is essentially an underclocked variant of the Snapdragon 7s Gen 2.

    Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 Specifications

    The Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 is a notable addition to Qualcomm’s lineup. By incorporating this chipset, smartphone manufacturers can provide users with high-performing devices at a lower cost.

    This processor boasts 4 performance-focused 2.4 GHz Cortex-A78 cores and 4 efficiency-focused 1.8 GHz Cortex-A55 cores. On the graphics end, it is equipped with the Adreno 710 GPU. Furthermore, it supports both LPDDR4x and LPDDR5 RAM and is compatible with UFS 3.1 storage.

    Comparison with Snapdragon 7s Gen 2

    The Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 also features 4 performance-oriented 2.4GHz Cortex-A78 cores and 4 efficiency-focused 1.95GHz Cortex-A55 cores, along with the Adreno 710 GPU. The similarities between the 6 Gen 3 and the 7s Gen 2 are striking. However, the 7s Gen 2 offers support for a 144Hz refresh rate at FHD+ resolution, a capability absent in the 6 Gen 3. Aside from this, there are no other differences, and the Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 doesn’t bring any new features to the table. Essentially, Qualcomm has reintroduced the same processor with a different label.

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  • Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 Launches October 21

    Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 Launches October 21

    As leaks about the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 keep emerging, Qualcomm has recently disclosed the date for their forthcoming Snapdragon Summit. A post on a Chinese tech blog indicated that Qualcomm’s next Snapdragon Summit is scheduled for October 21.

    Snapdragon Summit on October 21, Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 is Underway

    Newly surfaced images reveal that Qualcomm hasn’t officially announced the release date for Snapdragon 8 Gen 4. Nevertheless, the next Snapdragon Summit will be hosted in Hawaii from October 21 to October 23, and it is anticipated that the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 will be unveiled at this event. This new chipset is eagerly awaited as it will be built using TSMC’s 3nm process. Earlier leaks suggest that the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 achieves a score of around 10,000 in Geekbench’s multi-core CPU performance test, placing it somewhat on par with Apple’s M3 processor.

    Snapdragon Summit – October 21st

    The Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 will include Qualcomm’s Oryon CPU, which is expected to significantly improve the mobile gaming experience. Another known detail is that the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4’s prime core will operate at 4.2 GHz. The Xiaomi 15 series might be the first smartphone lineup to feature the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4.

    Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 Launches October 21
    Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 Launches October 21
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  • Qualcomm Sues Transsion, Maker of Infinix, Tecno, and itel

    Qualcomm Sues Transsion, Maker of Infinix, Tecno, and itel

    In an unexpected development, Qualcomm has initiated legal action against Transsion, the fourth-largest smartphone maker globally, citing alleged infringements on four of its patents.

    According to IP Fray on LinkedIn, the lawsuit concerns four unspecified non-standard essential patents owned by Qualcomm. What makes this situation particularly unique is that Transsion does not incorporate Qualcomm’s Snapdragon processors in any of its current smartphone models.

    A Different Approach

    Qualcomm usually uses its significant influence in the mobile chip industry to negotiate licensing agreements when its patents are breached. However, this approach isn’t applicable to Transsion, which primarily uses processors from MediaTek and Unisoc, as reported by WinFuture.

    Despite not utilizing Qualcomm’s chips, Transsion boasts popular brands such as Tecno, Itel, and Infinix. These brands focus on the budget and mid-range smartphone markets, a strategy that has led Transsion to become the fourth-largest smartphone manufacturer globally, following Samsung, Apple, and Xiaomi, according to Statista.

    Potential Impact

    This rapid growth seems to have attracted Qualcomm’s scrutiny, resulting in this lawsuit over unspecified “non-standard essential patents.” The lawsuit’s outcome is still uncertain, but it could compel Transsion to pay licensing fees, which might significantly affect their already thin profit margins on budget devices.

    Qualcomm’s new lawsuit comes amid pressure from other major tech companies. The Financial Times reports that Philips has also sued Transsion, while Nokia is seeking licensing fees for its patented technologies used in Transsion’s phones.

    Ongoing Developments

    Interestingly, a Transsion spokesperson stated in the Financial Times report that the company has signed a “5G standard patent license agreement” with Qualcomm and asserts that it is meeting its obligations under that agreement. This raises questions about why Qualcomm chose to file a lawsuit if that is indeed the case.

    The resolution of this legal battle and its impact on Transsion remains uncertain. We will continue to provide updates as new information becomes available.

    Qualcomm Sues Transsion, Maker of Infinix, Tecno, and itel
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  • Vodafone, Qualcomm, Xiaomi Achieve Record 5G Download Speeds

    Vodafone, Qualcomm, Xiaomi Achieve Record 5G Download Speeds

    European telecommunications leader Vodafone, chipmaker Qualcomm, and smartphone maker Xiaomi have announced the successful testing of new 5G technology that achieved download speeds of almost 1.8 gigabits-per-second (Gbps).

    The tests, carried out in Germany and Spain, employed a more efficient data transmission method known as 1024 quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM), which is an upgrade from the existing 256 QAM system. The 1024 QAM technique reportedly allows for more data to be packed into each transmission, resulting in faster download speeds for users.

    Innovative Testing and Technology

    The test device was Xiaomi’s latest flagship, the 14 Ultra, which features Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X75 5G Modem-RF System. The results varied slightly by location: in Germany, the test demonstrated about a 20% throughput improvement on a commercial network over a distance of 600 meters. The most impressive peak download speed of 1.8 Gbps was recorded at Vodafone’s 5G test center in Ciudad Real, Spain.

    According to Vodafone, the impact of 1024 QAM extends beyond just speed. The increase in speed and data throughput will enhance network capacity, enabling it to support more users in crowded areas such as shopping centers. Vodafone claims that, theoretically, 1.8 Gbps could offer a capacity gain of up to 25% in ideal conditions.

    Future Availability and Device Compatibility

    “The successful trials conducted in Germany and Spain with Vodafone and Xiaomi are proof that we are continuing to push the boundaries of what is possible with 5G technology,” said Qualcomm’s Dino Flore in a statement.

    Vodafone anticipates that this advanced technology will be widely accessible by 2025. However, it’s crucial to note that not all current 5G devices may be compatible with it.

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  • MediaTek Triumphs Again Despite Qualcomm’s Strong Presence

    MediaTek Triumphs Again Despite Qualcomm’s Strong Presence

    5G technology is expanding rapidly. What was once exclusive to flagship models can now be found in mid-range and even entry-level smartphones.

    Naturally, this fast-growing market has ignited competition among various companies. For example, Qualcomm and MediaTek are in a fierce battle to secure their places in more smartphones.

    Have you ever wondered who is leading this competition? A recent study provides the answer. Here are the details…

    MediaTek Surpasses Qualcomm Snapdragon in the 5G Smartphone Market

    A study by Omdia has identified the more successful chipset manufacturer in the 5G market. According to the report, Qualcomm, long a dominant player due to its flagship phone popularity, has been overtaken by MediaTek.

    In the first quarter of 2023, smartphones with MediaTek’s 5G processors numbered 34.7 million. This figure surged by 53% to 53.0 million in the first quarter of 2024.

    Meanwhile, devices powered by Snapdragon remained relatively stable, with shipments changing slightly from 47.2 million units in Q1 2023 to 48.3 million in Q1 2024.

    Market Share Dynamics

    When it comes to market share, MediaTek leads with 29.2%. Apple follows with 27%, and Qualcomm holds 26.5%. Other chipset manufacturers, including Samsung, Google, Huawei, and UniSoC, collectively make up 17% of shipments.

    This increase is partly due to the growth of Kirin, driven by the Huawei Mate 60 Pro and Nova 12 series. MediaTek’s rise is not without reason. Its biggest advantage over Qualcomm is its pricing.

    For instance, if you aim to sell a smartphone for around $250 and need a 5G chipset, MediaTek is a favorable option. However, despite its success, profitability remains a challenge for MediaTek.

    Profitability and Market Strategy

    Yes, MediaTek sells more processors than Qualcomm. Yet, Qualcomm earns more profit per unit sold, affecting budgets for R&D and growth. This mirrors the situation between Apple and Samsung for years.

    Nevertheless, regardless of the background, MediaTek has once again managed to outpace Qualcomm.

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  • Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 to Cost 30% More Than Gen 3, Up to $240

    Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 to Cost 30% More Than Gen 3, Up to $240

    The upcoming Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 Soc from Qualcomm has been a topic of much speculation, particularly regarding its pricing. According to tipster Yogesh Brar, the new chipset is expected to be more expensive than its predecessor. Reports suggest the new chipset will cost between $220 and $240, marking a price hike of 25% to 30% over the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. The official unveiling of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 is set for the Snapdragon Summit in October this year, with models expected to be available by 2025.

    New Manufacturing Process

    Rumors indicate that Qualcomm will employ the TSMC 3nm N3E process for the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4. The ARM core from the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 will be replaced by Qualcomm’s self-developed Oryon core. This switch to the Oryon core is believed to be a significant factor contributing to the higher price of the new chipset. The current price range for the third-generation Snapdragon 8 chipset is between $190 and $200. Previous rumors have suggested that Qualcomm is redesigning the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 processor to achieve a new target frequency of 4.26GHz. This enhancement is allegedly aimed at competing with Apple’s M4/A18/Pro processors and seems to justify the rumored price increase.

    Awaiting Official Confirmation

    As of now, Qualcomm has not released an official statement confirming the quality of the rumored changes or the pricing of the next-gen Snapdragon 8 chipset. More details about the upcoming Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 processor are expected to emerge as we approach the October unveiling.

    Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 to Cost 30% More Than Gen 3, Up to 0
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  • Qualcomm Unveils Snapdragon 6s Gen 3: New Chip or Rebranded 695?

    Qualcomm Unveils Snapdragon 6s Gen 3: New Chip or Rebranded 695?

    Qualcomm has discreetly introduced the Snapdragon 6s Gen 3 5G chipset designed for mid-range smartphones. This chipset is fabricated using a 6nm process node.

    Snapdragon 6s Gen 3 Specs and Features

    The Snapdragon 6s Gen 3 is an octa-core chipset featuring a (2+6) core configuration, reaching a peak clock speed of 2.3GHz. It incorporates unspecified Qualcomm Kryo CPU cores. The GPU, also undisclosed, supports H.264 (AVC), H.265 (HEVC), VP8, and VP9 playback. A benchmark listing suggests it might be the Adreno 619, the same GPU found in the Snapdragon 695.

    This chipset supports FHD+ (1080 x 2520) display output at a 120Hz refresh rate.

    Camera Capabilities

    For the camera system, manufacturers can implement up to 108MP photo capture, a 32MP single camera, a 25MP + 13MP dual-camera setup, or a 13MP triple camera setup. It supports 1080p video recording at 60 fps and 720p slow-motion video capture at 120 fps. The actual implementation of these features depends on the smartphone manufacturer.

    The chipset includes the Qualcomm Spectra triple ISP for image processing, similar to the Snapdragon 6 Gen 1.

    Audio and Connectivity

    The chipset supports high-fidelity audio up to 384 kHz/32-bit, and features AI-based echo cancellation and noise reduction.

    For cellular connectivity, it uses the Snapdragon X51 5G Modem-RF System, offering a maximum download speed of 2.5Gbps. It supports a range of technologies including mmWave, 5G NR, LTE, HSPA, sub-6 GHz, TDD, WCDMA, FDD, SA, NSA, TD-SCDMA, CDMA 1x, EV-DO, and GSM/EDGE.

    WiFi and Bluetooth

    The chipset supports WiFi 4, WiFi 5, and Bluetooth 5.2 through the Qualcomm FastConnect 6200 System. It also includes Qualcomm’s proprietary TrueWireless technology for enhanced performance with compatible Bluetooth devices.

    The Snapdragon 6s Gen 3 supports LPDDR4x memory (up to 2133 MHz), UFS 2.2 storage, and Quick Charge 4+ technology for fast charging.

    A Rebranded Snapdragon 695?

    According to Android Authority, this new chipset might be a rebranded version of the Snapdragon 695 5G. The chipset has two part numbers: SM6375-AC and SM6370. Documentation indicates that the latter is not 5G capable, although it still includes the same 5G Snapdragon X51 modem.

    Android Authority speculates that the Snapdragon 6s Gen 3 could merely be a rebranding of the Snapdragon 695, with the 4G version having its 5G modem disabled. For reference, the Snapdragon 695 was launched in 2021.

    Qualcomm Unveils Snapdragon 6s Gen 3: New Chip or Rebranded 695?
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  • Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 Targets 4.26GHz to Outperform Apple A18/Pro

    Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 Targets 4.26GHz to Outperform Apple A18/Pro

    Qualcomm has announced that they will integrate chips with their custom CPU cores following the acquisition of Nuvia. The forthcoming Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 will feature custom cores in a 2+6 CPU cluster configuration, comprising two performance cores and six energy-efficient cores. Rumors suggest that a design update for the chip, targeting a clock frequency of 4.26GHz, might be finalized in the coming month, aiming to rival Apple A18.

    Redesign and Enhanced Performance

    The Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 could potentially see a performance boost, particularly in single-core tasks, with the speculated redesign set to be completed in June, focusing on achieving a 4.26GHz clock speed to compete with Apple's A18 chip.

    Process Node Efficiency

    Both Apple's M4 series and the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 are anticipated to be manufactured using TSMC's second-generation 3nm process node. This technology has shown efficiency in sustaining high clock frequencies, evident in the latest Apple Silicon chips.

    Power Efficiency and Features

    Qualcomm's chipset, while utilizing the same 3nm process node, lacks support for ARMv9 instruction set and Scalable Matrix Extension (SME), which enhances chip performance in complex tasks. Managing power efficiency will be crucial for Qualcomm this time, as previous reports hinted at higher power consumption, potentially necessitating larger smartphone batteries.

    Qualcomm is projected to reveal the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 chipset at the upcoming Snapdragon Summit, expected to take place in October. The Xiaomi 15 series could possibly be among the first smartphones to feature the Oryon CPU-powered Android flagship.

    Moreover, Qualcomm is actively developing two ARM-based chips featuring custom Oryon CPU cores for Windows PCs – the 12-core Snapdragon X Elite and the 10-core Snapdragon X Plus.

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  • Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 Leak Suggests Impressive Gaming Performance

    Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 Leak Suggests Impressive Gaming Performance

    According to a leak from a well-known industry tipster, Digital Chat Station, Qualcomm’s upcoming Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 processor seems to be progressing as planned for a punctual release, showcasing a high level of performance.

    The leaked information implies that the 8 Gen 4 chip will be capable of smoothly running the graphically intensive mobile game, Genshin Impact, at its original 1080p resolution.

    Anticipated Wave of New Devices

    Digital Chat Station also suggests that there will be a surge of new smartphones incorporating the 8 Gen 4 chip following China’s National Day holiday on October 1st. This aligns with expectations as Qualcomm is set to unveil the new chipset in October.

    Potential Devices and Benchmark Performance

    Speculations point towards the Xiaomi 15 series smartphone being the first to feature the new chip, with subsequent releases from Redmi for the K80 series and OnePlus for the upcoming OnePlus 13 smartphone.

    Benchmark results for the 8 Gen 4 have been consistently emerging. A recent instance involved a device equipped with the 8 Gen 4 processor achieving a score of 1,769,083 points on AnTuTu. Despite this, the score falls short of the current Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 due to the nature of the engineering sample used and significant CPU throttling during testing.

    Final Thoughts and Awaited Reviews

    To gain a comprehensive understanding of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4’s actual capabilities, it is essential to wait for Qualcomm’s official product launch and subsequent independent reviews.

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  • Samsung may introduce Arm-based Galaxy Book 4 Edge this month

    Samsung may introduce Arm-based Galaxy Book 4 Edge this month

    We previously mentioned that Samsung is developing a new laptop within the Galaxy Book 4 series. In contrast to existing Galaxy Book models powered by Intel chips, the upcoming Galaxy Book 4 Edge will run on the Windows on Arm platform and feature Qualcomm's Snapdragon X Elite chip. Qualcomm has hinted that these Arm-based chips may launch around "mid-2024" and potentially even this month.

    Samsung's Galaxy Book 4 Edge Launch

    Recent reports suggest that Samsung intends to introduce the Galaxy Book 4 Edge, featuring the new chip, before the end of this month. Sources from Sammobile indicate that Samsung aims to unveil the Galaxy Book 4 Edge promptly as the new Arm-based chips hit the market.

    Features and Pricing

    GeekBench listings have previously confirmed the Galaxy Book 4 Edge's name and its utilization of an Arm-based chip. This laptop will offer a 14" display, 16GB of RAM, 512GB of storage, and is expected to be priced around €1,800.

    Both Qualcomm's benchmarks and GeekBench listings have showcased promising performance and energy efficiency with the new chip. While these results are encouraging, it is important to note that real-world performance may vary, influenced by factors like power management and cooling solutions. Therefore, it is advisable to wait for retail units for a more accurate assessment.

    Snapdragon X Elite Specifications

    The Snapdragon X Elite chip features 12 Qualcomm Oryon CPUs, two running at 4.3GHz and the others at 3.8GHz. It also integrates a Qualcomm Adreno GPU capable of up to 4.6 TFLOPS and a powerful 45TOPS Qualcomm Hexagon NPU for AI applications.

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