Qualcomm plans to release the Snapdragon 8s Elite, a new chipset aimed at powering upper mid-range Android phones. Expected to launch in April 2025, the chip promises a performance boost over its predecessor, the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3, while remaining a step below the flagship Snapdragon 8 Elite AP.
What We Know About the Snapdragon 8s Elite
Leaker Digital Chat Station, known for reliable industry insights, revealed that the Snapdragon 8s Elite will carry the model number SM8735. It is expected to outperform the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 but fall short of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 in raw power.
The chip will likely be manufactured by TSMC on the same 4nm process node used for the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3. Qualcomm’s flagship Snapdragon 8 Elite AP, in contrast, is built on TSMC’s second-gen 3nm node (N3E), highlighting the difference in target audiences for these processors.
Target Market and Features
The Snapdragon 8s Elite will cater to mid-range devices, offering a balanced mix of performance and affordability. Phones featuring this chipset could boast large batteries of up to 7000mAh, appealing to users who prioritize long-lasting battery life.
While Qualcomm has yet to confirm details, its strategy to expand its mid-range portfolio makes sense. The Snapdragon 8s Gen 3, released in March 2023, delivered AI enhancements and solid performance for mid-tier devices. The upcoming Snapdragon 8s Elite is expected to follow a similar path, offering incremental upgrades and broadening Qualcomm’s reach in the Android market.
Expected Release Timeline
Qualcomm might officially unveil the Snapdragon 8s Elite in the first quarter of 2025, with devices powered by the chip arriving in April 2025. This timeline aligns with previous Snapdragon releases, such as the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3, which launched earlier this year.
Why It Matters
The Snapdragon 8s Elite fills a critical gap between Qualcomm’s flagship and entry-level processors. Its introduction will likely drive innovation in the mid-range smartphone segment, providing users with premium features like advanced AI capabilities and efficient power consumption without the high price tag of flagship devices.
Keep an eye out for more details as Qualcomm prepares to redefine mid-range smartphone performance with the Snapdragon 8s Elite.
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