Commercial Launch in Q1 Next Year... Qualcomm Unveils 'Snapdragon 888'

Premium One-Chip Integrating Modem and AP

[Asia Economy Reporter Han Jinju] Qualcomm has unveiled its new flagship smartphone mobile platform, the 'Snapdragon 888.' Unlike previous models that required a separate 5G modem, this integrated system-on-chip significantly improves performance and battery efficiency.

On the 3rd, Qualcomm Technologies introduced the Snapdragon 888 5G mobile platform at its annual event, Snapdragon Tech Summit Digital 2020. Starting from the first quarter of next year, several manufacturers will commercialize smartphones equipped with the Snapdragon 888.

The Snapdragon 888 is a platform incorporating 5G technology, featuring Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth audio capabilities. It integrates the 3rd generation Snapdragon X60 5G modem-RF system, supporting sub-6 GHz bands and millimeter-wave technology, achieving 5G speeds up to 7.5 Gbps. The modem-RF system provides nationwide 5G coverage and supports excellent coverage across virtually all major networks worldwide. The Snapdragon 888 uniquely supports global 5G multi-SIM, allowing users to handle international roaming or personal and business calls on a single phone.

The Snapdragon 888 also represents an evolution in AI architecture. Equipped with the Qualcomm Hexagon 780 processor, the 6th generation Qualcomm AI Engine enhances overall performance in AI functions such as professional-level camera capabilities, voice recognition personal assistants, and elite gaming. Camera performance is also significantly improved. It can process up to 2.7 gigapixels per second or capture 120 photos at 12-megapixel resolution. It is the first Snapdragon to implement a triple ISP capable of simultaneously capturing from three cameras. It can shoot ultra-fast, high-resolution action shots or capture three 4K HDR videos simultaneously.

The Snapdragon 888 is manufactured using advanced 5-nanometer (nm) process technology, improving performance and power efficiency. The Qualcomm Kryo 680 CPU boosts performance by up to 25% and achieves a maximum frequency of 2.84 GHz. The Qualcomm Adreno 660 GPU delivers 35% faster graphics rendering compared to the previous generation.

Alex Katouzian, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Qualcomm Technologies' Mobile Division, stated, "The new flagship Snapdragon 888 mobile platform will enable OEMs to differentiate their devices and allow users to enjoy the benefits of the latest cutting-edge mobile technologies."