Qualcomm has launched two new flagship smartphone processors, the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 and Snapdragon 8 Elite Extreme Gen 6, emphasizing enhanced AI capabilities. Announced at Qualcomm's annual Snapdragon Summit, these chips aim to improve AI-driven personalization and local processing on mobile devices.
Both processors include new sensing hubs capable of running AI models with up to 200 million parameters locally. This enables features such as personal scribes that can differentiate between speakers and build usage-based memory to offer smarter task automation. Qualcomm highlighted the ability to run a full voice-in and voice-out AI agent directly on the device.
The Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 introduces a new accelerator designed for more efficient AI model execution. Its higher-end counterpart, the Snapdragon 8 Elite Extreme Gen 6, supports running a 30-billion-parameter mixture-of-experts (MoE) model locally, activating only relevant parameters for specific tasks. This compares to Apple's recently announced 20-billion-parameter MoE model showcased at WWDC.
Camera capabilities have also been enhanced, with pixel-level control for professional-grade photography, improved stabilization, and motion understanding. The Extreme version supports 8K video recording at 60fps and 4K at 240fps for ultra HD slow-motion, along with a new Advanced Professional Video codec for high-quality recording.
Audio improvements include AI-powered vocal enhancement and noise reduction, alongside Qualcomm’s new voice bubble technology that isolates user noise during calls.
Motorola announced its upcoming Motorola Signature 27 smartphone will feature the Snapdragon 8 Elite Extreme Gen 6, with availability expected later this year.
Qualcomm noted its involvement in over 40 AI-enabled devices, reflecting a broader industry trend toward integrating advanced AI directly into smartphones rather than relying on separate devices. This perspective aligns with recent comments from industry figures, including Apple’s CEO John Ternus, emphasizing the smartphone as a primary AI platform.