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Qualcomm Unveils Chip for Mid-Range AI PCs: Should Rivals Fret?

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Qualcomm Unveils Chip for Mid-Range AI PCs: Should Rivals Fret?

Qualcomm Incorporated QCOM recently took the market by storm with the launch of the Snapdragon X chip for mid-range AI (artificial intelligence) desktops and laptops. This SoC (system-on-chip) is the fourth such product in the Snapdragon X processor line, following the successful launch of the Snapdragon X Plus 8-core, Snapdragon X Plus and Snapdragon X Elite series.

Based on a 4-nanometer process, the Snapdragon X chip comprises an 8-core Oryon central processor, a graphics component and a neural processing unit (NPU). The NPU accelerates AI workloads, offering 45 TOPS (trillions of operations per second), making it an ideal platform to power Copilot+PCs – Microsoft Corporation’s MSFT vision of AI-first, flagship Windows hardware. These PCs with AI-powered tools and applications are set to be launched in the first quarter at around $600, making them an affordable option for the masses.

AI PCs incorporate an additional processor designed specifically to accelerate AI capabilities. This specialized hardware enhances features like personal assistants and task automation. One of the significant selling points of AI PCs is their enhanced battery life. Qualcomm’s chips, which are based on Arm Holdings Plc designs, promise extended use without frequent charging. 

Leveraging processors with multi-core CPUs with cutting-edge features, amazing graphics and worldwide network connectivity, Qualcomm Snapdragon mobile platforms are fast and have superb power efficiency. Smartphones and mobile devices built with Snapdragon mobile platforms enable immersive augmented reality and virtual reality experiences, brilliant camera capabilities, superior 4G LTE and 5G connectivity with state-of-the-art security solutions.

Qualcomm is currently focusing on a deeper foray into the realm of AI capabilities within the laptop and desktop business. The strategy is aimed at moving beyond the slowing smartphone industry, which is its primary breadwinner. In addition to diversifying its revenue stream, this is likely to extend QCOM’s AI footprint. The latest brand of AI chips is set to give a run for money to Intel Corporation’s INTC Core 5 120U processor, which is also used to power mid-range PCs.

Qualcomm is increasingly focusing on the seamless transition from a wireless communications firm for the mobile industry to a connected processor company for the intelligent edge. The company is well-positioned to meet its long-term revenue targets driven by solid 5G traction, greater visibility and a diversified revenue stream.

Qualcomm is witnessing healthy traction in EDGE networking, which helps transform connectivity in cars, business enterprises, homes, smart factories, next-generation wearables and tablets. The company intends to harness AI to meet increased demands for essential products and services that are the building blocks of digital transformation in a cloud economy.

The automotive telematics and connectivity platforms, digital cockpit and C-V2X solutions are fueling emerging automotive industry trends such as the growth of connected vehicles, the transformation of the in-car experience and vehicle electrification. Qualcomm believes it is on track to become the largest smartphone radio frequency front-end supplier by revenue in the near future. Automotive revenues rose 68% to a record high of $899 million in fourth-quarter fiscal 2024, driven by increased content in new vehicle launches with its Snapdragon Digital Chassis platform. This was the 16th consecutive quarter in which Qualcomm recorded double-digit growth in automotive revenues.

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