Qualcomm Launches Two Snapdragon X Plus CPUs with 8 Cores, Adds New 10-Core Variant

Qualcomm has unveiled its latest additions to the Snapdragon X series, introducing two 8-core CPUs and a new 10-core variant. These new processors aim to address the pricing concerns that have plagued the Snapdragon X series, making high-performance ARM-based laptops more affordable.

The Snapdragon X Plus Lineup

Key Specifications

• X1P-66-100: 10 cores, boosts up to 4.0 GHz (single core), 3.8 TFLOPS, XI-45 Adreno GPU
• X1P-46-100: 8 cores, boosts up to 4.0 GHz (single core), 2.1 TFLOPS, XI-45 Adreno GPU
• X1P-42-100: 8 cores, boosts up to 3.4 GHz (single core), 1.7 TFLOPS, XI-45 Adreno GPU

These processors are designed to offer a balance between performance and power efficiency, making them suitable for a range of applications from productivity to light gaming.

Addressing the Price Issue

One of the biggest challenges for Qualcomm has been the high price point of its Snapdragon X series laptops. The initial 12-core and 10-core models were priced at a premium, often exceeding $1,000. With the introduction of the new 8-core and 10-core variants, Qualcomm aims to bring the price down to a more competitive level, targeting $700 or less. However, early models like the ASUS Zenbook S 15 and Dell Inspiron 14 are still priced around $899, indicating that there is still room for improvement.

Performance and Compatibility

While the Snapdragon X series offers impressive power efficiency, it faces challenges with non-ARM-native applications, such as games, which often require translation. This can result in subpar performance for certain applications. However, the new processors are expected to be fully certified for the Microsoft Copilot+PC program, which could enhance their appeal.

Market Impact and Speculation

The introduction of more affordable Snapdragon X Plus CPUs could make ARM-based laptops a more viable option for a broader audience. The focus on pricing suggests that Qualcomm is keen to capture a larger market share, especially as Intel and AMD systems are also set to receive Microsoft Copilot+PC certification soon.

Final Thoughts

Qualcomm’s new Snapdragon X Plus CPUs represent a strategic move to address pricing concerns and broaden the appeal of ARM-based laptops. While there are still challenges to overcome, particularly in terms of application compatibility, the new processors offer a promising blend of performance and affordability. As the market evolves, it will be interesting to see how these new CPUs fare against their x86 counterparts.