Tag: Qualcomm

  • Qualcomm Snapdragon X Plus: Windows laptops get what feature MacBooks lack

    Qualcomm Snapdragon X Plus: Windows laptops get what feature MacBooks lack

    As we prepare for the launch of laptops equipped with Snapdragon X Elite chips by mid-2024, Qualcomm is also contemplating offering more cost-efficient ARM-based Windows chip options such as Snapdragon X Plus.

    There Are Two Snapdragon X Plus SoC Variants

    According to recent leaks, Qualcomm appears to be creating two different variations of their Snapdragon X Plus System-on-Chip (SoC), which may offer advantages over Apple’s current MacBook series. These chips reportedly bear model numbers X1P44100 and X1P46100; “X Plus” chips can be distinguished from Snapdragon X Elite ones by using “X1E” instead of ‘X1P” when listing model numbers.

    Potential Features of Snapdragon X Plus

    Although exact details remain sparse, its nomenclature suggests that the Snapdragon X Plus may be a lesser version of its more robust sibling; possibly with reduced core counts similar to what Apple uses with their M series chips as a differentiating factor. Although not reaching the raw power of its more expensive sibling, the Snapdragon X Plus could prove ideal for affordable Windows laptops running ARM technology.

    Integration of Qualcomm Snapdragon X65 5G Modem.

    Qualcomm appears to be testing an important feature that would make Snapdragon X Plus laptops even more appealing: an integrated Snapdragon X65 5G modem. If successful implementation occurs, this would bring 5G-enabled Windows laptops onto the market – something Apple cannot compete with due to Apple’s absence in this particular segment of 5G laptops.

    Though an official release date for the Snapdragon X Plus smartphone hasn’t been set, considering its predecessor is anticipated for later 2024, we might expect its arrival later in 2019 or early in 2025 based on similar patterns as with its Snapdragon X Elite counterparts. At present, however, any predictions remain uncertain and timeline estimates should only be used as estimates at best.

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  • Qualcomm S5 Gen 3 & S3 Gen 3 Sound Platforms Revealed for Next-Gen Audio

    Qualcomm S5 Gen 3 & S3 Gen 3 Sound Platforms Revealed for Next-Gen Audio

    Qualcomm has recently unveiled the S5 Gen 3 and S3 Gen 3 sound platforms, designed to elevate the audio experience on a variety of devices such as earbuds, headphones, and speakers. These platforms are set to bring cutting-edge sound quality to premium and mid-range audio products, incorporating state-of-the-art technologies and AI-driven improvements.

    S5 Gen 3 Platform: Enhancing Premium Audio

    The S5 Gen 3 platform, tailored for premium audio devices, delivers a notable enhancement in performance, boasting triple the computational power and fifty times the AI capacity compared to its predecessor. This platform introduces features like Adaptive Active Noise Cancellation and the Snapdragon Sound Technology Suite, ensuring top-notch listening experiences. With support for Snapdragon Sound featuring aptX Lossless and Bluetooth 5.4, users can expect seamless music streaming and connectivity.

    S3 Gen 3 Platform: Elevating Mid-Range Audio

    On the other hand, the S3 Gen 3 platform caters to mid-range devices, enriching audio experiences with functionalities such as hearing enhancement and spatial audio. It also supports Snapdragon Sound with aptX Lossless 24-bit 48kHz music streaming and Bluetooth 5.4 connectivity for a well-rounded audio experience.

    Both platforms come equipped with advanced features like enhanced ANC, high-quality DAC for crystal-clear sound reproduction, and LE Audio for innovative audio-sharing capabilities. These new sound platforms are slated to make their way into upcoming mid-range and premium audio devices, promising users an audio experience like never before. Stay tuned for further updates on these exciting developments.

    Qualcomm S5 Gen 3 & S3 Gen 3 Sound Platforms Revealed for Next-Gen Audio
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  • Qualcomm’s Latest Innovation: Snapdragon X Elite Chip

    Qualcomm’s Latest Innovation: Snapdragon X Elite Chip

    For more than fifteen years, Qualcomm has been in pursuit of a successful Arm-based Windows laptop that excels in performance and battery life. Despite encountering a few victories along the journey, devices powered by Qualcomm have often fallen short of meeting mainstream expectations, leaving Intel and AMD as the primary contenders in the market.

    Qualcomm’s Latest Innovation: Snapdragon X Elite Chip

    Qualcomm’s newest offering, the Snapdragon X Elite chip, introduces a compelling feature: the capability to run existing x86/64 games without necessitating developers to adapt them for Arm architecture. This innovation has the potential to revolutionize the landscape of Windows on Arm devices.

    Rising to Meet Industry Standards

    Apple’s transition to M-series silicon chips has raised the industry benchmark significantly. The exceptional performance and efficiency gains of Apple’s chips, even when running legacy x86 software via Rosetta 2 emulation, have set a high standard. In response, Windows on Arm endeavors to bridge the gap, with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X Elite poised to transform the user experience.

    Advancements in Emulation and Support

    Qualcomm emphasizes its collaboration with game developers to ensure smooth compatibility of their titles on forthcoming Snapdragon-powered laptops. Leveraging advanced emulation techniques, the Snapdragon X Elite chip enables x86/64 games to operate at near-optimal speeds. Qualcomm asserts that its Adreno GPU drivers fully endorse contemporary graphics standards, minimizing performance compromises during emulation.

    If Qualcomm’s assertions hold true, the Snapdragon X Elite chip could herald a new era for Arm-based laptops. Despite potential uncertainties associated with unreleased hardware, Qualcomm’s confidence in its product instills a sense of assurance. However, challenges may arise with games utilizing kernel-level anti-cheat software or relying heavily on AVX instruction sets. Nonetheless, the successful implementation of Qualcomm’s vision could mark a significant milestone for Windows on Arm.

    Qualcomm's Latest Innovation: Snapdragon X Elite Chip
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  • Introducing Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 SoC: On-Device GenAI Capabilities

    Introducing Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 SoC: On-Device GenAI Capabilities

    Qualcomm recently unveiled the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 processor, a streamlined version of the flagship Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. Now, the American chipmaker has introduced a new mid-range System on Chip (SoC) that joins the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 lineup. The latest addition is the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3, serving as the successor to last year's Snapdragon 7+ Gen 2. This new chipset brings various enhancements, particularly in the realm of artificial intelligence (AI), indicating that devices powered by this SoC will boast advanced AI features.

    Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 Unveiled

    The Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 retains TSMC's 4nm process, similar to its predecessor. It shares the same CPU architecture as the flagship Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, comprising a prime core, four performance cores, and three efficiency cores. Notably, the prime core reaches a maximum speed of 2.8GHz. Qualcomm claims that this chipset offers a 15% improvement in CPU performance, a 45% boost in GPU performance, and a 15% enhancement in power efficiency.

    Enhanced Connectivity and AI Capabilities

    Equipped with an integrated X63 5G modem and FastConnect 7800 mobile connectivity system, the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 can achieve peak download speeds of up to 4.2 Gbps and supports WiFi-7 connectivity. One of its standout features is the support for on-device generative AI capabilities, enabling a wide array of large language models (LLM) like Baichuan-7B, Llama 2, and Gemini Nano. This empowers devices using this chipset to enhance virtual assistant functionalities and offer additional AI-powered features, including multi-language translation and transcription.

    Impressive Features and Specifications

    The Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 boasts an 18-bit triple cognitive Image Signal Processor (ISP) and can capture images up to 200MP. Notable features include Snapdragon Low Light Vision and advanced audio capabilities such as Spatial Audio with head tracking, Snapdragon Sound technology, aptX Lossless, and LE audio support. This chipset can accommodate up to QHD+ display resolution at a 120Hz refresh rate, along with supporting up to 24GB LPDDR5x RAM and a UFS 4.0 storage system.

    The OnePlus Ace 3V has already been introduced in China, featuring the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 processor, showcasing the capabilities of this new mid-range SoC.

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  • Next-Gen Snapdragon “Pakala” Chip and Reference Device Unveiled in New Qualcomm Video

    Next-Gen Snapdragon “Pakala” Chip and Reference Device Unveiled in New Qualcomm Video

    Qualcomm had previously declared its intention to unveil the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 later this year. In a recent YouTube video released by the company, keen observers were able to identify the codename of the upcoming chipset as well as the reference device. Let’s delve into the details.

    Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 Details Unveiled
    In a video titled “Behind the Silicon: Snapdragon X”, Qualcomm inadvertently revealed the moniker of the upcoming Snapdragon 8 Gen 4, which goes by the name “Pakala”. Just before the codename was spotted, viewers caught a glimpse of the reference device being utilized in the video. However, the video primarily focuses on the Snapdragon X Elite rather than the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4.

    Exciting Updates on Snapdragon 8 Gen 4
    It was previously speculated that the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 would be identified as “Sun” on benchmarking platforms and as “Pakala” for the hardware, a speculation that has now been confirmed. This upcoming chipset from Qualcomm is highly awaited and signifies a significant chip redesign for the brand, not just a routine annual release of its top-of-the-line mobile Application Processor (AP). The Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 is reportedly transitioning from ARM cores to Qualcomm’s proprietary Oryon cores.

    Anticipated Performance and Features
    There are rumors circulating that suggest the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 could potentially outperform the Apple A18 Pro chipset, although this remains unverified at the present time. Initial information indicates that the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 might also offer support for LPDDR6 memory. The official unveiling of the chipset is scheduled for October 2024, so stay tuned for further developments.

    Next-Gen Snapdragon “Pakala” Chip and Reference Device Unveiled in New Qualcomm Video
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  • Introducing Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 SoC: On-Device GenAI Features

    Introducing Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 SoC: On-Device GenAI Features

    Qualcomm has recently unveiled the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 processor, a streamlined variant of the flagship Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. In addition to this, the American chipmaker has introduced a new mid-range System on Chip (SoC) that joins the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 family. This latest addition is known as the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3, serving as the successor to the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 2 from the previous year. The Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 brings forth a variety of enhancements, particularly in the realm of Artificial Intelligence (AI), indicating that devices powered by this chipset will incorporate advanced AI functionalities.

    Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 Unveiled

    The Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 retains the 4nm process technology from TSMC, similar to its predecessor. Its CPU architecture mirrors that of the flagship Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, comprising of a prime core, four performance cores, and three efficiency cores. Notably, the prime core reaches a maximum clock speed of 2.8GHz. Qualcomm asserts that this chipset offers a 15% improvement in CPU performance, 45% in GPU performance, and a 15% boost in power efficiency.

    Enhanced Features and Connectivity

    Equipped with an integrated X63 5G modem and the FastConnect 7800 mobile connectivity system, the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 can achieve peak download speeds of up to 4.2 Gbps while also supporting WiFi-7 technology.

    On-Device AI Capabilities

    One of the standout features of the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 is its on-device generative AI capabilities. This platform supports a diverse array of large language models (LLM) like Baichuan-7B, Llama 2, and Gemini Nano, enhancing virtual assistant functionalities, multi-language translation, and transcription capabilities for smartphones powered by this chipset.

    Photography and Audio Capabilities

    Featuring an 18-bit triple cognitive Image Signal Processor (ISP) that can capture images up to 200MP, the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 boasts additional features such as Snapdragon Low Light Vision. On the audio front, it supports Spatial Audio with head tracking, Snapdragon Sound technology, aptX Lossless, LE audio, and more. The chipset is capable of accommodating up to QHD+ display resolution at a refresh rate of 120Hz, and it supports up to 24GB of LPDDR5x RAM and a UFS 4.0 storage system.

    OnePlus Ace 3V Debut

    The OnePlus Ace 3V has already made its entrance in the Chinese market, featuring the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 processor.

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  • Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 SoC Launch: Supports 1080p 240FPS Video Recording

    Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 SoC Launch: Supports 1080p 240FPS Video Recording

    Qualcomm recently held a media event to unveil the latest Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 SoCs, a variant of the flagship Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip. This new chip retains key features like hardware-accelerated ray tracing, enhancing visual quality in games and apps by improving lighting, shadows, and reflections. Additionally, it incorporates the Adreno Frame Motion Engine 2.0 to potentially double game frame rates from 60fps to 120fps.

    Enhanced Features and Performance

    The CPU configuration comprises a Cortex-X4 prime core, four Cortex A720 cores, and three Cortex-A520 cores running at speeds of 3.0GHz, 2.8GHz, and 2.0GHz, respectively. Supporting up to 24GB LPDDR5x RAM clocked at 4,200MHz, it boasts an 18-bit triple cognitive ISP for image and video processing tasks. The chip offers various capabilities like always-on camera, photo enhancement, and 4K HDR video recording at 60FPS.

    Advanced Connectivity and AI Capabilities

    The Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 integrates the FastConnect 7800 Mobile Connectivity System, Wi-Fi 7 with HBS, Snapdragon X70 5G-Modem RF System, and 5G AI processor. It supports Release 17 5G, promising improved performance and broader coverage. On-device generative AI features include AI image generation and support for up to 10 billion parameters, catering to diverse AI applications.

    Adoption by Global Brands

    Qualcomm has announced partnerships with leading global OEMs and brands like HONOR, iQOO, realme, Redmi, and Xiaomi, who will incorporate the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 platform into their upcoming devices. The first product launch utilizing this platform is anticipated in March.

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  • Qualcomm’s Upcoming Snapdragon Chip Launch Event on March 18: Expectations for 8s Gen 3 & 7+ Gen 3

    Qualcomm’s Upcoming Snapdragon Chip Launch Event on March 18: Expectations for 8s Gen 3 & 7+ Gen 3

    Qualcomm is gearing up for a product launch event scheduled for 14:30 on March 18th to introduce its highly anticipated Snapdragon flagship system-on-a-chip (SoC). The event's theme revolves around the concept that "Intelligence is in the core, and there is a dragon in it."

    Rumors circulating suggest that Qualcomm is set to reveal the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 (SM7675) and Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 (SM8635) chips during this upcoming event. These chips, internally referred to as "Cliffs," are believed to offer different variations of the same core technology, sharing the architecture of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3.

    Speculated Chip Specifications

    Here's an overview of the rumored specifications for both the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 and Snapdragon 8s Gen 3, compared to the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3:

    ChipBig CoreMedium CoreSmall CoreGPU
    7+ Gen 31*2.9GHz Cortex-X44*2.6GHz Cortex-A723*1.9GHz Cortex-A52Adreno 732
    8s Gen 31*3.01GHz Cortex-X44*2.61GHz Cortex-A723*1.84GHz Cortex-A52Adreno 735
    8 Gen 31*3.3GHz Cortex-X43*3.25GHz Cortex-A722*2.27GHz Cortex-A52Adreno 750

    Potential Devices with New Processors

    There is speculation about upcoming devices that could potentially feature these new processors. Some of the devices that might be equipped with either the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 or Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 processors include:

    • Realme GT Neo6 series (Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 or Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3)
    • Redmi Note 13 Turbo (Snapdragon 8s Gen 3)
    • Xiaomi Civi 4 (Snapdragon 8s Gen 3)
    • OnePlus Ace 3V (Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3)
    • Vivo Pad 3 (Snapdragon 8s Gen 3)
    • iQOO Neo 9 series new devices (Snapdragon 8s Gen 3)

    To get concrete details on these specifications and device lineups, we will have to await Qualcomm's official event on March 18th.

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  • Samsung Galaxy Book 4 Edge Excels in Geekbench with Snapdragon X Elite

    Samsung Galaxy Book 4 Edge Excels in Geekbench with Snapdragon X Elite

    Samsung recently unveiled its Galaxy Book 4 series globally, but there’s a new arrival on the scene that’s caught attention – the Samsung Galaxy Book 4 Edge. This mysterious newcomer has made an appearance on the Geekbench benchmarking platform, teasing some intriguing details about the upcoming device.

    Samsung Galaxy Book 4 Edge Specifications

    The Galaxy Book 4 Edge surprises with Qualcomm’s latest Snapdragon X Elite processor coupled with a substantial 16GB of RAM, all while operating on Windows 11 Home (64-bit).

    The benchmark not only reveals Samsung’s collaboration with Qualcomm for laptops but also suggests a delay in deploying Samsung’s Exynos chips for larger devices. This move seems sensible as Samsung is presently concentrating on optimizing the Exynos line for smartphones.

    Impressive Performance Metrics

    The Galaxy Book 4 Edge, powered by the Snapdragon X Elite, impresses with Geekbench 6.2.2. scores of 2,706 points in single-core and an outstanding 12,646 points in multi-core tests, showcasing its robust performance capabilities.

    When compared, the Snapdragon X Elite surpasses Apple’s M1 and M2 chips but falls short against the newer M3 (excluding the M Pro line).

    Qualcomm’s Chip in the Market

    A direct comparison between the Snapdragon X Elite and Apple’s M-series chips is complex due to the inherent differences between Windows 11 on ARM and MacOS. Apple’s superior software optimization for its M-chips gives it an advantage, highlighting the significance of real-world performance beyond benchmarks.

    Rumors suggest that Qualcomm’s new chip might feature in Microsoft’s upcoming Surface Laptop 6 and Surface Pro 10, potentially positioning Samsung as a direct rival to Microsoft’s established Surface lineup.

    Samsung’s Strategic Partnership

    Samsung’s decision to collaborate with Qualcomm for its premium laptop lineup, including the Galaxy Book 4 Edge, is unexpected, considering Qualcomm’s recent foray into the consumer PC chip market.

    Samsung Galaxy Book 4 Edge Excels in Geekbench with Snapdragon X Elite
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  • MediaTek Overtakes Apple & Qualcomm as Top Smartphone Chipset Vendor 2023

    MediaTek Overtakes Apple & Qualcomm as Top Smartphone Chipset Vendor 2023

    Chipmaker MediaTek has been recognized as the leading System on Chip (SoC) vendor by the close of 2023. Known for developing the fastest smartphone processor currently available, MediaTek’s Dimensity 9300 and other chipsets have secured a significant share in the smartphone market.

    MediaTek’s Dominance in the SoC Market

    A recent report from Canalys sheds light on MediaTek’s ascent as the preferred SoC vendor in 2023. In the fourth quarter of the year, MediaTek sold 117 million units of chipsets, surpassing Apple’s 78 million and Qualcomm’s 69 million units. Noteworthy competitors in the smartphone SoC sector include Google, Samsung, and Unisoc. MediaTek’s smartphone shipments for the year exhibited a 21% year-on-year increase, amounting to $23 billion in revenue. Despite this, Apple’s revenue from shipments reached $87 billion, overshadowing MediaTek. Qualcomm also surpassed MediaTek with shipments valued at $30 billion in 2023.

    Market Dynamics and Competitors

    The Canalys report reveals a 2% decline in Qualcomm’s SoC shipment revenue from the previous year. Samsung experienced a significant 44% decrease in earnings from its Exynos chips, suggesting potential for improvement with chips from other providers in Q4 2023. This decline accounted for approximately 40% of Qualcomm’s returns and 25% of MediaTek’s figures for the quarter. Notably, Xiaomi emerged as a key buyer of Qualcomm chipsets, representing 25% of purchases. While Xiaomi also contributed about 20% of MediaTek chipsets shipped in Q4 2023, Samsung stood out as the primary customer for the vendor.

    Emerging Players and Growth Prospects

    Huawei made a substantial impact in the market in 2023 as per the Canalys report. With a remarkable 5,121% surge, the Chinese OEM shipped 7 million units and generated $7 billion in revenue, largely fueled by its new Kirin SoCs. Unisoc also demonstrated strong potential for growth, with a 24% increase in revenues year-on-year totaling $3 billion, alongside 27 million units shipped. The primary clientele of Unisoc included brands like Transsion, Realme, and Lenovo. In contrast, Google’s performance in SoC shipments was lackluster with estimated revenues of $2 billion and 3 million units sold, possibly due to the exclusive nature of its Tensor chipsets designed solely for Pixel phones.

    MediaTek Overtakes Apple & Qualcomm as Top Smartphone Chipset Vendor 2023
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