Qualcomm Unveils Snapdragon 7s Gen 3: Mid-Tier Upgrade with Cortex-A720
Qualcomm has launched the its latest SoC for mid-range smartphones. This new chip aims to offer improved performance and power efficiency for budget-friendly devices. Positioned as the entry-level chip in the Snapdragon 7 series, the 7s Gen 3 stands out with significant upgrades.
Upgraded CPU Performance
The new Snapdragon adopts Arm’s latest Armv9 CPU cores, using a 1+3+4 configuration. This setup includes one prime Cortex-A720 core clocked up to 2.5GHz. Additionally, it features three Cortex-A720 performance cores running at up to 2.4GHz. Four efficiency cores, based on Arm’s A520 design, support lighter tasks and can boost to 1.8GHz. This new architecture replaces the older A78/A55 cores from the previous generation, resulting in a 20% improvement in CPU performance.
Enhanced GPU and AI Capabilities
Qualcomm’s Adreno GPU powers the graphics in the Snapdragon 7s Gen 3. While Qualcomm has not disclosed specific GPU details, they claim a 40% improvement in GPU performance over the 7s Gen 2. This will make gaming and multimedia experiences much smoother.
The chip also features an updated Hexagon NPU for AI tasks. This NPU supports INT4 for low precision inference, enhancing local AI processing. Users can expect a 30% boost in AI performance compared to the previous generation.
Improved Connectivity and Camera Features
The Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 supports both LPDDR4X and LPDDR5 memory. This flexibility allows manufacturers to choose based on the device’s price and performance requirements. The camera system uses a trio of 12-bit Spectra ISPs, supporting a maximum of 64MP resolution with zero shutter lag.
On the connectivity side, Qualcomm has integrated a 5G modem that supports Sub-6 and mmWave bands, with speeds reaching up to 2.9Gbps. The Wi-Fi/Bluetooth module, now branded as FastConnect, supports Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.4, providing stable and fast wireless connections.
Efficient Design and Future Devices
Qualcomm has built the new Snapdragon on TSMC’s N4P process. This shift has enhanced power efficiency by 12%, ensuring longer battery life for smartphones. Xiaomi will be the first brand to use this chip in their new phones, with Realme, Sharp, and Samsung expected to follow soon.
The Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 offers an attractive upgrade for mid-range smartphones. It combines enhanced CPU and GPU performance with efficient AI support, making it a strong contender in the mid-tier market.
