In case you weren't paying attention, Qualcomm decided to launch a slightly less powerful but significantly cheaper version of the Snapdragon 8 Gen3, the most powerful SoC in the Android ecosystem. We are talking about the Snapdragon 8s Gen3 SoC! Which in reality could very well be a test for a future in which Qualcomm always offers two types of processors, a super expensive one, and of course, another SoC that is a little less powerful, but obviously a little cheaper.
In other words, it is very likely that in Qualcomm's next launch, the new Snapdragon 8 Gen4, which should be a little more expensive compared to the current Gen3, will soon be accompanied by the 8s Gen4, in order to give manufacturers some choice.
If it's going to go well… We just have to wait and see what all this will do!
The Snapdragon 8s Gen3 is just the beginning of something new!
Therefore, one of the biggest complaints from Android manufacturers is almost always pointed out to Qualcomm, one of the most important suppliers in this industry, as it provides not only the processor (SoC), but also the 5G modem.
The SoC (System-on-a-chip) is increasingly complex, and therefore significantly more expensive. In case you didn't know, the current Snapdragon 8 Gen3 costs something like 200 dollars per unit, and it seems that the next SoC will be even more expensive thanks to the fact that it implements some architectural new features, and of course, it is based on the 3nm process. from TSMC.
Thus, as Qualcomm does not want to cut the price of its most profitable product, everything indicates that the new 8s Gen3 is nothing more than a test to understand how partners may or may not adopt a slightly less powerful, but much more powerful SoC , to understand whether or not this strategy can be used in the very near future, who knows… Starting with the launch of the Snapdragon 8 Gen4 at the end of 2024.
It will depend on the price of the SoC. Or rather… It will depend on the price of smartphones that use this SoC!
I'm very honest, I don't have high expectations for this SoC. The processor arrives too late to make a difference. But, to be implemented well, on devices such as a hypothetical Nothing Phone (3). Or something like the recently launched OnePlus 12R could be a potential effort to make a difference.
After all, if we're really honest, the reality is that having a super high-end SoC or not… It doesn't make a difference at the end of the day.
Therefore, if manufacturers are able to create really interesting offers with an SoC almost as good as the latest technology in the industry… Things could go well and make a dent in the market!
Especially at this point in the championship when we have already reached €1500 on the base Premium models.
First of all, share your opinion with us in the comments box below. Do you think this strategy will be a success? Share your opinion with us in the comments box below.