Qualcomm is expanding its presence in the Windows PC market with the introduction of new Snapdragon X series processors and mini desktop PCs. This marks a significant shift in the company's strategy, bringing ARM-based computing to desktop form factors while also targeting more affordable price points in the laptop segment.
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| Qualcomm's Snapdragon X Series: Pioneering ARM-based computing in the Windows PC market |
New Mini PC Offerings
Lenovo leads the charge with two Snapdragon X-powered mini desktop PCs. The consumer-focused IdeaCentre Mini x and business-oriented ThinkCentre Neo 50q QC both feature compact one-liter designs. The IdeaCentre Mini x, priced at USD $659.99, will launch in April 2025 with support for up to 32GB RAM and 1TB NVMe storage. The ThinkCentre Neo 50q QC, arriving next month at USD $849, offers up to 16GB RAM and dual SSD support, targeting business users with enhanced connectivity options.
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| The Qualcomm Oryon CPU: Powering Lenovo's innovative mini desktop PCs |
Entry-Level Snapdragon X Processor
Qualcomm's newest addition to the lineup, the Snapdragon X (model X1-26-100), aims to democratize ARM-based Windows computing. This processor targets USD $600 laptops while maintaining key features like AI acceleration and efficient performance. With an eight-core CPU running at 3GHz and an NPU capable of 45 TOPS AI performance, it positions itself as a compelling option for mainstream users.
Performance and Capabilities
The new Snapdragon X processor, while slightly less powerful than its X Plus siblings, still offers impressive specifications. It includes a 1.7 teraflop GPU, AV1 codec support, and advanced connectivity features like Wi-Fi 7 and optional 5G support. Early benchmarks of the higher-tier X Plus eight-core variant suggest competitive performance against Apple's M2 MacBooks in CPU tasks, though GPU performance remains a challenge.
Future-Ready Features
These new offerings emphasize AI capabilities and power efficiency. The processors support Windows 11 on ARM and qualify for Microsoft's Copilot Plus designation, indicating strong AI performance potential. The platform's efficiency is particularly noteworthy, with Qualcomm claiming up to three days of battery life for typical workloads in laptop implementations.
Market Availability
Lenovo and Dell are confirmed as early partners for laptops featuring the new Snapdragon X processor, with devices expected to hit markets in early 2025. This expansion into both desktop and more affordable laptop segments represents Qualcomm's most comprehensive push into the Windows PC market to date.