Handheld gaming consoles have loved a resurgence just lately, and Qualcomm clearly thinks they’re the longer term.
The US chipmaker has introduced three new devoted processors, every of which targets a distinct type of handheld console. Two of those – the Snapdragon G1 Gen 1 (for sport streaming) and Snapdragon G2 Gen 1 (for cell and cloud gaming) – are model new.
However the Snapdragon G3x Gen 2 is an upgraded model of 2021’s unique, which lastly made its means into the Razer Edge earlier this 12 months. It’s a high-end chipset, designed for flagship consoles.
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No new Snapdragon G Collection units have been revealed but, and solely smaller firms are confirmed to be working with Qualcomm up to now: AyaNeo, Huaqin, Inventec, and Thundercomm.
An upgraded model of the Snapdragon-powered Logitech G Cloud would make sense, however will the likes of Valve (Steam Deck) and Asus (ROG Ally) actually transfer away from AMD and Intel parts? Solely time will inform.
It’s additionally value noting one class of gadget that the Snapdragon G Collection received’t be coming to: gaming telephones. Whereas the mobile-focused G3x Gen 2 is anticipated to run Android on some units, this chip isn’t meant for general-purpose apps. Appears to be like like that will probably be left to the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for right now’s finest telephones.
Snapdragon G1 Gen 1
The G1 Gen 1 is solely designed for consoles which stream video games through the web, moderately than downloading them for offline use. This may be executed both regionally (from a console or PC on the identical community) or through a sport streaming service.
Whereas a powerful Wi-Fi connection will probably be essential, the G1 Gen 1 goals to then present “lag-free connectivity”. Its mixture of an 8-core Kryo CPU and Adreno A11 GPU ought to assist guarantee this.
Battery life can also be stated to be higher than most gaming handhelds, with Qualcomm suggesting a full day of gaming is inside attain. In fact, this can depend upon the {hardware} of the gadget it powers.
Snapdragon G2 Gen 1
The G2 Gen 1 is extra versatile and highly effective than the G1. It may nonetheless be used for cloud gaming, but in addition cell titles from the likes of the Google Play Retailer and Amazon Appstore, relying on the working system the gadget runs.
Wi-Fi 6E is the primary connection technique, however the G2 additionally has a built-in Snapdragon X62 5G modem (supporting each sub-6 and mmWave requirements). It means you’ll be able to sport from anyplace with an honest sign.
You continue to get an 8-core Qualcomm Kryo CPU right here, but it surely’s paired with a extra succesful Adreno A21 GPU. To assist forestall overheating, there’s additionally the choice for energetic cooling right here.
However with no point out of battery life, don’t count on it to be pretty much as good as G1 Gen 1 units.
Snapdragon G3x Gen 2
The G3x Gen 2 is the high-end of the Snapdragon G Collection, designed for premium, enthusiast-level units. It helps each sport streaming and cell titles, aiming to be the final word handheld gaming chip.
Core efficiency is supplied by the 8-core Kryo CPU and an Adreno A32 GPU, which Qualcomm says delivers as much as 30 sooner CPU efficiency and the GPU efficiency of the G3x Gen 1. The identical Snapdragon X62 5G modem and energetic cooling are right here, too.
Qualcomm
However there are many premium options you received’t discover on the opposite chips, together with Wi-Fi 7 help, accelerated ray tracing and Qualcomm’s Sport Tremendous Decision upscaling characteristic.
You may even join a G3x Gen 2 handheld to XR glasses, whether or not they’re designed for augmented (AR), digital (VR) or combined (MR) actuality.
Qualcomm has indicated that the primary product bulletins for all G Collection chips will happen by the top of this 12 months, with a lot extra anticipated in 2024.