As smartphone processors continue to evolve, Qualcomm appears to be expanding its Elite series lineup with a new mid-range offering that promises flagship-level performance at a more accessible price point.
The Rise of a New Elite
Following the recent launch of the Snapdragon 8 Elite, Qualcomm is reportedly developing a new chip codenamed SM8735, likely to be marketed as the Snapdragon 8s Elite. This processor represents Qualcomm's strategy to bridge the gap between mid-range and flagship performance, potentially revolutionizing the affordable flagship segment.
Performance Expectations
According to reliable tipster Digital Chat Station, the Snapdragon 8s Elite is positioned to deliver performance that surpasses the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 while remaining slightly below the 8 Gen 3. This positioning follows Qualcomm's established pattern with their 's' series chips, which aim to provide near-flagship performance at a more competitive price point.
Expected Performance Hierarchy:
- Snapdragon 8 Elite (Highest)
- Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
- Snapdragon 8s Elite
- Snapdragon 8 Gen 2
Technical Architecture
While the exact specifications remain under wraps, there's significant interest in whether the 8s Elite will incorporate Qualcomm's custom-designed Oryon cores, which debuted in the flagship 8 Elite. However, industry insider Yogesh Brar suggests the chip might stick with traditional Arm Cortex CPU cores, potentially to maintain cost efficiency while delivering competitive performance.
Market Impact and Device Integration
The first smartphones featuring the Snapdragon 8s Elite are expected to hit the market around April 2025. Notably, some manufacturers are already planning to pair this processor with substantial 7,000mAh batteries, suggesting a focus on both performance and endurance. Xiaomi, which pioneered the adoption of the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 with their Civi 4 Pro, appears to be at the forefront of implementing this new chipset.
Key Features:
- Model Number: SM8735
- Expected Launch: April 2025
- Target Device Battery: Up to 7,000mAh
- First Expected Implementation: Xiaomi devices
Future Implications
This development could significantly impact the upper mid-range smartphone segment, potentially offering consumers flagship-like performance without the premium price tag. The success of previous 's' series chips, particularly the 8s Gen 3's competitive performance against the 8 Gen 2, suggests that the 8s Elite could become a compelling option for manufacturers looking to create powerful yet cost-effective devices.