Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 Set to Propel Android Flagships of 2024

Qualcomm's chips dominate the Android phone market, particularly in high-end flagship models such as the Galaxy S23 Ultra and OnePlus Open. The Snapdragon 8 series is Qualcomm's top-tier chipset for smartphones and tablets, and they have just unveiled a new version that will soon power upcoming smartphones.

Introducing the new Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, set to be integrated into various smartphones expected to be released in 2024 (and maybe late 2023). Rumors suggest that the Samsung Galaxy S24 series and OnePlus 12 will be among the first to adopt this chip, but the public will have to wait for official announcements and availability. As of now, all we have are the chip's specifications and new features. This chip incorporates a Kryo CPU architecture, consisting of a single "prime" ARM Cortex-X4 core running at speeds of up to 3.3 GHz, five performance cores clocked at up to 3.2 GHz, and two efficiency cores at up to 2.3 GHz. The distribution of cores is a bit unconventional, and its real-world performance remains to be seen.

Additionally, we now have support for an impressive 24GB of LPDDR5X RAM and QHD+ 144Hz displays (or 4K at 60Hz). Moreover, we are introducing an Adreno GPU that supports real-time ray tracing like the Apple A17 Pro, alongside a significantly enhanced Spectra ISP that promises an exceptional photography experience. The inclusion of various AI-based optimizations, including an "AI Engine" for on-device generative AI processing, further enhances the capabilities of this advanced chipset. Furthermore, it offers support for Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, UFS 4.0, and numerous other features. Essentially, it builds upon the already-impressive performance of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, incorporating several new features and greatly improved functionality.

Over the next few months, this highly anticipated SoC will gradually make its appearance in smartphones. Some Chinese smartphone brands, such as Xiaomi, may even release their 8 Gen 3 phones ahead of others this year. However, in general, you can expect phones powered by this phenomenal chipset to be available throughout 2024.

Source: Qualcomm