Qualcomm Could Launch Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 in Two Variants: 4nm and 3nm Versions

Qualcomm is expected to introduce the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC next month. However, the upcoming processor could arrive in two flavors, if a new report by South Korea's gamma0burst (via Gizmochina) is to be believed. The report states that Qualcomm is set to unveil not one but two variants of its highly anticipated Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset.

Two Variants

One variant of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 will employ TSMC's 4nm process node, replacing its predecessor, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2. However, what truly raises eyebrows is the second variant, which will harness TSMC's N3E (enhanced) 3nm node.

Qualcomm May Release Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 in 4nm and 3nm Versions

The Power of Smaller Transistors

The smaller process node utilized in the 3nm variant allows for more transistors to be packed into the same chip space. This boost in transistor density promises a chipset that is not only more potent but also energy-efficient, a combination that will undoubtedly delight consumers. The iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max are the only two phones that currently use 3nm chipsets (A17 Pro).

Building on Past Success

Qualcomm's choice to offer two variants is similar to a strategy it used in 2022 when it released the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 and Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1, both of which were powered by different process nodes. This strategy proved to be wise, as the Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 outperformed its predecessor thanks to TSMC's 4nm node, which offered 30% better power efficiency and improved temperature control.

The Core Configuration

The documents reveal that both Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 variants will share identical CPU configurations, featuring ARM's latest Cortex-X4 prime CPU core, the Cortex-A720 performance CPU core, and the Cortex-A520 efficiency CPU core. The primary distinction lies in the manufacturing process, which could significantly impact performance, energy efficiency, and heat management.