Qualcomm Launches Snapdragon 8 Gen 5: Flagship-Level Chip for More Affordable Devices
Qualcomm has introduced a new addition to its 8-series lineup, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5, designed to deliver near-flagship performance at a more accessible price point. While it sits just below the top-tier Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, this new chipset aims to bring high-end features and power efficiency to a wider range of premium smartphones.
3nm Process and Oryon CPU Architecture
Like its Elite counterpart, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 is manufactured on an advanced 3nm process. It features Qualcomm’s third-generation Oryon CPU, equipped with:
- 2× prime cores at 3.8 GHz
- 6× performance cores at 3.32 GHz
This architecture is engineered to balance sustained performance, power efficiency, and thermal management, key elements for next-generation premium devices.
Qualcomm is positioning this new flagship-grade chipset as a major upgrade over the two-year-old Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. According to the company, users can expect:
- 36% faster CPU performance
- 11% improved GPU output
- 46% better AI processing performance
- 13% overall power savings at the SoC level
These gains position the chip as a compelling “flagship-killer” alternative for phones that aim to deliver high-end experiences without top-tier pricing.
Adreno 840 GPU and Advanced AI Capabilities
The Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 includes a sliced version of the Adreno 840 GPU, complete with Frame Motion Engine 3.0, mirroring the graphics tech used in the Elite model but without Adreno High-Performance Memory (HPM).
For AI workloads, the chipset features the latest Hexagon NPU, delivering a 46% boost in AI tasks compared to the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. It supports on-device generative AI, multi-modal input, and other cutting-edge AI features expected in 2025 smartphones.
The chip also incorporates:
- Qualcomm Spectra ISP for advanced computational photography
- Qualcomm X80 5G Modem-RF System, the same modem used in the Snapdragon 8 Elite, offering faster, more reliable 5G performance
These additions ensure high-quality imaging and top-tier connectivity for mid-premium and upper-midrange devices.
First Phones to Feature Snapdragon 8 Gen 5
OnePlus will be the first manufacturer to debut the new chipset in the upcoming OnePlus Ace 6T / OnePlus 15R. Other brands, including iQOO, Motorola, and vivo, are expected to announce their own smartphones powered by the chip in the near future. Stay tuned for further updates.
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