Qualcomm has introduced the Snapdragon 4s Gen 2 platform for basic cell phones, bringing advanced technologies to more affordable devices. This new chip offers features like 5G connectivity and AI-enhanced audio and photography, typically found in higher-end smartphones.
Launched just over a year after the Snapdragon 4 Gen 2, the Snapdragon 4s Gen 2 aims to be even more cost-effective while maintaining many of the same features. It includes the same Kryo CPU with eight cores running up to 2.2 GHz and is built using advanced 4 nm manufacturing technology.
The platform continues to support Quick Charge 4+ technology, enabling faster charging. It promises to recharge the battery of budget phones to 50% in just 18 minutes, a significant improvement over the typical two hours or more required for a full charge in this category.
“Through cutting-edge engineering, we balance affordability with reliability, delivering strong performance with all-day battery life, built-in AI and broad access to 5G for enhanced mobile experiences,” said Chris Patrick, senior vice president and general manager, Mobile Devices, Qualcomm Technologies, Inc.
The Snapdragon 4s Gen 2 aims to bring 5G technology to smartphones priced around $99. It supports a 5G modem with a maximum download speed of up to 1 Gbps. Additionally, the chip includes Wi-Fi 5 and advanced UFS 3.1 internal storage, providing faster and more efficient performance for budget devices.
“The Snapdragon 4s Gen 2 Mobile Platform is a significant leap forward in making 5G technology more accessible, so more people can navigate the world at 5G speeds,” said Patrick.
Qualcomm made some trade-offs with the Snapdragon 4s Gen 2, including support for displays with a maximum refresh rate of 90 Hz, compared to 120 Hz on the standard model, while still allowing Full HD resolution.
For cameras, the new chip uses a Spectra ISP, a dedicated image processor. Qualcomm claims it features AI noise reduction, enhanced electronic image stabilization, and the ability to perform digital zoom with minimal loss of quality.
Availability
The Snapdragon 4s Gen 2 is expected to appear in smartphones before the end of 2024, focusing on emerging markets in Asia and Latin America and availability in the United States. Xiaomi will likely be the first to incorporate this new hardware into its devices.
