Qualcomm Launches Snapdragon 8 Gen 5: Flagship-Level Chip for More Affordable Devices

TechnologyDigital
26 Nov 2025 • 4:27 PM MYT
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Qualcomm has introduced a new addition to its 8-series lineup, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5, designed to deliver near-flagship performance at a more accessible price point. While it sits just below the top-tier Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, this new chipset aims to bring high-end features and power efficiency to a wider range of premium smartphones.

3nm Process and Oryon CPU Architecture

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Like its Elite counterpart, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 is manufactured on an advanced 3nm process. It features Qualcomm’s third-generation Oryon CPU, equipped with:

  • 2× prime cores at 3.8 GHz
  • 6× performance cores at 3.32 GHz

This architecture is engineered to balance sustained performance, power efficiency, and thermal management, key elements for next-generation premium devices.

Qualcomm is positioning this new flagship-grade chipset as a major upgrade over the two-year-old Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. According to the company, users can expect:

  • 36% faster CPU performance
  • 11% improved GPU output
  • 46% better AI processing performance
  • 13% overall power savings at the SoC level

These gains position the chip as a compelling “flagship-killer” alternative for phones that aim to deliver high-end experiences without top-tier pricing.

Adreno 840 GPU and Advanced AI Capabilities

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The Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 includes a sliced version of the Adreno 840 GPU, complete with Frame Motion Engine 3.0, mirroring the graphics tech used in the Elite model but without Adreno High-Performance Memory (HPM).

For AI workloads, the chipset features the latest Hexagon NPU, delivering a 46% boost in AI tasks compared to the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. It supports on-device generative AI, multi-modal input, and other cutting-edge AI features expected in 2025 smartphones.

The chip also incorporates:

  • Qualcomm Spectra ISP for advanced computational photography
  • Qualcomm X80 5G Modem-RF System, the same modem used in the Snapdragon 8 Elite, offering faster, more reliable 5G performance

These additions ensure high-quality imaging and top-tier connectivity for mid-premium and upper-midrange devices.

First Phones to Feature Snapdragon 8 Gen 5

OnePlus will be the first manufacturer to debut the new chipset in the upcoming OnePlus Ace 6T / OnePlus 15R. Other brands, including iQOO, Motorola, and vivo, are expected to announce their own smartphones powered by the chip in the near future. Stay tuned for further updates.

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