Qualcomm Introduces Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC with Enhanced AI and Gaming Features
Qualcomm Unveils Next-Generation System-on-Chip
Qualcomm has unveiled its latest system-on-chip (SoC), the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, at the Snapdragon Summit in Hawaii. This new chip is specifically designed for future smartphones and comes with significant enhancements compared to its predecessor, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2. One of the key improvements is the focus on generative AI, which can support over 10 billion parameters in AI models.
Enhancements in AI, Gaming, and Image Processing
The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC features an upgraded Kryo CPU and an enhanced AI Engine supported by Qualcomm’s Sensing Hub technologies. It also includes an Adreno GPU, Hexagon NPU, and Arm Cortex-X4 technology. With advanced image processing capabilities, the chip enables up to 200-megapixel photo capture and AI for 3A.
Additionally, this new chip enhances gaming experiences with Elite Gaming features, Snapdragon Game Super Resolution, and integration with Unreal Engine version 5.2. Security features have also been bolstered, including the inclusion of a Trust Management Engine among other enhancements.
5G Compatibility and Impressive Specifications
The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 comes equipped with the Snapdragon X75 5G Modem-RF system, offering 5G compatibility with speeds up to 10Gbps/3.5Gbps. The chip supports up to 24GB of LP-DDR5x RAM at 4800MHz and device displays for 4K @60Hz and QHD+ @144Hz. It also supports an external display up to 8K @30Hz and up to 1080p @240Hz. Operating on TSMC’s slightly updated 4nm process, the chip provides impressive performance and efficiency.
Anticipated Adoption by Android Handset Manufacturers
Several Android handset manufacturers, including ASUS, Honor, and OnePlus, are expected to incorporate the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC in their future releases. However, notable absences from this list are Samsung and Google. While Google remains committed to Tensor, the absence of Samsung does not confirm that the Galaxy S24 will exclusively use Exynos.
Additional Platforms and Availability
In addition to the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC, Qualcomm unveiled the Snapdragon X Elite and Snapdragon Seamless platforms. These new chipsets are expected to appear in phones from various manufacturers in the coming weeks, further enhancing the capabilities and performance of future smartphones.
