Qualcomm has announced its next generation Snapdragon products at Mobile World Congress in Barcelona. The most interesting product is the high-end APQ8064, which features four cores that can run as fast as 2.5GHz each. Here are some tantalizing details from the press release:
The new processor micro-architecture, code-named Krait, in the next-generation Snapdragon will redefine performance for the industry, offering speeds of up to 2.5GHz per core and delivering 150 percent higher overall performance, as well as 65 percent lower power than currently available ARM-based CPU cores.
The quad-core APQ8064 will be designed to meet the performance requirements of the next generation of computing and entertainment devices while minimizing power consumption. As with the Snapdragon dual-core, the APQ8064 will include four asynchronous CPU cores which can be independently controlled for maximum efficiency. The Adreno 320 quad-core GPU debuts in the APQ8064 processor where it enables console-quality gaming and renders rich user interfaces.
The APQ8064 will also include a variety of features that make it a compelling processing solution for use in mobile entertainment and computing devices, including support for both PC and LP DDR memory, serial and PCIe interfaces, and multiple USB ports. The APQ8064 will also seamlessly integrate with Qualcomm 3G and LTE MDM modems and modules, giving OEMs a flexible and cost-efficient platform that can meet all of their design configuration needs and help reduce time to market.
Man, these CPU/GPU combos sound ridiculous. I can’t wait to see what these chips — especially the Adreno 320 on the graphics — can do! At CES 2011, I was drooling over all the dual-core phones on display. The prospect of quad-core processing in the palm of my hand sounds…brilliant. Now please excuse as I glare at my T-Mobile G2 for having a single-core chip running at 800MHz.
