Qualcomm unveils Snapdragon 855 SoC

Qualcomm just opened its annual Technology Summit and one of the big announcements on the first day is its next-generation mobile platform, the Snapdragon 855. It’s the company’s first major 5G platform. Technically, the X50 modem works with the Snapdragon 845 and 835, this new processor will most likely power the upcoming 5G-ready smartphones. The chip also packs in Qualcomm’s fourth generation AI Engine, which promises up to three times better AI performance than previous chips. This means we could see improvements when it comes to smart assistants, biometric security, image processing, and object recognition. The Snapdragon 855 also comes with Qualcomm’s Computer Vision ISP, which is supposed to be a boon for computational photography and video capture capabilities.

Aside from the AI improvements, Qualcomm’s 3D Sonic Sensor is coming to the Snapdragon 855. Instead of using optical or capacitive technology, the sonic sensor will make use of ultrasound waves to get fingerprint details. It’s designed to work through multiple layers, including glass, for more discrete implementations.

Source: Android Authority

HTC said to be working on smartphone with Snapdragon 855 processor, 5G support

While HTC has been struggling in the mobile space, it seems the company isn’t ready to throw in the towel just yet. An update from the LinkedIn profile of HTC’s senior RF designer Kevin Kuo states the company is hoping to turn its fortunes with a new device running on Qualcomm’s upcoming Snapdragon 855 chip, which will bring performance and efficiency enhancements over the current Snapdragon 845 processor. It’s also being suggested on Kuo’s profile that HTC plans to pair the Snapdragon 855 chip with the optional Snapdragon X50 5G modem. Qualcomm has said it is “on track to help launch the first 5G mobile hotspots by the end of 2018.”

Snapdragon 855 phones aren’t expected to land until the middle of next year. There is no specified timeline for this HTC device but if HTC manages to beat its competition, then this might help them along.

Source: Android Headlines + Tech Spot

Huawei takes on Qualcomm with new Kirin 980 processor

While it is meant to best its previous generation processor, Huawei’s newest system-on-a-chip, the Kirin 980 is actually setting its sights on its competition, specifically the Qualcomm Snapdragon 845. Qualcomm’s chip is after all powering all the latest flagships, outside of Huawei’s own devices. And it wants to remind the market that they have stepped up their game. It’s the first 7nm processor to pack in 6.9 billion transistors into a chip not bigger than a thumbnail. Compared to the 10nm process, it’s said to perform 20 percent better and be 40 percent more efficient.

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Qualcomm sends out invite for Wear OS chip launch on September 10th

It’s been two years since Qualcomm has updated the chip Android Wear devices devices have been using. Finally, a new chip is on its way and Qualcomm will be launching it next month for the rebranded Wear OS platform. The chipmaker sent out invites to journalists for an event happening on September 10^th. It shows a small smartwatch design with the words “It’s Time.”

Wareable did an interview with exec Pankaj Kedia and gave us clues on what to expect from the processor replacing the 2100 system-on-chip. It’s no longer just a modified phone processor but one that’s made specifically for wearables. And it’s supposed to offer better battery life and a better overall experience. Kedia said, “But when we go to generation three, it's designed from the ground up for a no-compromises smartwatch experience with dedicated chips that make your watch look pretty when you're not looking at it, that bring the best fitness and watch experience, and extend battery life.”

Source: Engadget