Qualcomm

A New Budget-Tier Snapdragon Processor Announced Global chip manufacturer Qualcomm has unveiled its latest budget-tier chipset, the Snapdragon 4 Gen 2, engineered with support for 2.5Gbps download speeds using 5G technology. This new offering comes close on the heels of the Snapdragon 4 Gen 1's September launch. Enhanced 5G Connectivity and Power Efficiency The new Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 features an X61 5G modem, making it the first chip in the series to support the enhanced Release 16 cellular capabilities. While retaining sub-6GHz 5G support and maintaining download and upload speeds at the previous rates of 2.5Gbps and 900Mbps, respectively, this upgrade provides significant improvements in network coverage and power-saving functionality. Moreover, the switch from TSMC's previous 6nm process to Samsung's smaller 4nm design brings a modest boost of around 5% to the chipset’s efficiency. This is a substantial improvement for devices in this price range. Improved CPU Performance and Memory Specifications The Snapdragon 4 Gen 2's octa-core CPU comprises two Cortex-A78 cores clocked at up to 2.2GHz and six Cortex-A55 cores with similar speed gains, delivering a claimed 10% increase in CPU performance compared to Snapdragon 4 Gen 1. In terms of memory specifications, this entry-level SoC introduces LPDDR5X RAM support, a step up from its predecessor’s LPDDR4X support. With a maximum data rate of LPDDR5-6400 and a peak memory bandwidth of up to 25.6GB/second, budget users can expect a significant boost in memory performance. Camera Performance & Multi-Camera Temporal Filtering While paring down to a dual-ISP system from the previous generation's triple format, Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 makes noise reduction for videos and improved autofocus possible through Multi-Camera Temporal Filtering (MCTF). This new chip can handle cameras up to 108MP resolution or deliver up to 32MP Zero Shutter Lag. Additionally, it can support either a 16+16MP dual camera configuration or electronic image stabilization (EIS) at up to 1080p 60fps video recording capabilities. Connectivity and Supported Devices Although the chipset does not yet incorporate mmWave support into its 5G capabilities and features downgraded Wi-Fi (1x1 support) support compared to its predecessor, it maintains Bluetooth 5.1 functionality for audio. The Qualcomm Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 chipset will be featured in devices from Redmi and vivo, expected to hit markets in the second half of 2023 with a price point below $200. Key Takeaways The announcement of the Qualcomm Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 offers budget users a powerful option for improved efficiency and processing power, while maintaining affordability. With upgraded CPU performance, LPDDR5X RAM support, enhanced noise reduction for videos through multi-camera temporal filtering, as well as Release 16 enhanced cellular capabilities in its X61 5G modem, this new chipset paves the way for more affordable yet highly capable devices in the expanding global market.

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