In January 2024, Qualcomm CEO Cristiano Amon announced that the company plans to accelerate its efforts in providing foundational technology for AI-driven connected devices across various applications. While addressing attendees at IFA 2024, Amon declared that Qualcomm is at a pivotal point in its mission to innovate personal computing, emphasizing that the launch of the latest Snapdragon X Series has redefined personal computing just as it has transformed mobile technology.
During the prominent technology trade show in Berlin, Qualcomm introduced the expansion of its Snapdragon X Series lineup with 8-core functionality. This advancement enables manufacturers to produce Copilot+ Windows PCs priced between $700 and $900, which feature substantial improvements in performance benchmarks for business applications. Amon highlighted that the Snapdragon X series has the potential to “transform the whole industry,” noting that the first and most advanced Copilot+ PCs designed for AI are already utilizing Snapdragon X Series platforms. He mentioned that a revolutionary neural processing unit (NPU) is behind this new generation of personal computing.
“With 8-core processing, the X Series is primed for the business sector. Currently, enterprises spend an average of around $900 on non-AI laptops. Now, they can access groundbreaking AI features starting at just $700 or $800. Given this context, it’s an obvious choice. Why wouldn’t you choose a CoPilot+ that offers extended battery life and some of the fastest CPU capabilities available? We are genuinely excited about this announcement as it represents a major shift in the industry.”
The Snapdragon X Plus 8-core is powered by a 45 TOPS NPU, known for its exceptional performance efficiency. The new platform is set to lead in the thin and light PC category, featuring a custom Qualcomm Oryon CPU that ensures rapid responsiveness and top-tier energy efficiency, resulting in devices that offer multi-day battery life. The Oryon CPU claims to provide a 61% boost in CPU performance compared to Intel’s Core Ultra 7 155U (12-core), which is reportedly 179% less power-efficient. Performance comparisons were based on tests conducted on Geekbench v6.2 Single-Core using Windows 11 in July and August 2024. Qualcomm also conducted power-performance comparisons to showcase the Snapdragon X Plus 8-core against the Intel Core Ultra 7 and AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX370 series, revealing performance advantages along with lower power requirements.
Commenting on the launch, Asus corporate vice-president Rangoon Chang expressed excitement about the Snapdragon X Plus 8-core platform, stating that the transformative power of Copilot+ is now accessible to a wider audience. Asus is dedicated to making advanced technology, such as the ProArt PZ13, available to everyone and views its partnership with Qualcomm as a significant advancement in this effort.
Qualcomm believes that the new platform, combined with enhanced connectivity, will significantly elevate productivity for tasks like creating presentations or video conferencing. Amon commented, “With Snapdragon X Plus 8-core, we are delivering transformative AI experiences alongside unparalleled performance and battery life thanks to our efficient custom Qualcomm Oryon CPU. We are excited to collaborate with leading global OEMs and retail partners to broaden our portfolio for enterprise and consumer needs.”
Amon also mentioned Qualcomm’s collaborative efforts with leading platforms like Slack and Zoom, integrating the NPU to enhance user experiences. “Slack’s collaboration now performs better on Snapdragon, leveraging Copilot+ features like live translation and AI optimizations using Windows Studio effects. With Zoom, we’re enhancing enterprise video communications using the NPU for features like virtual backgrounds—dramatically improving engagement. Utilizing the NPU decreases CPU load, prolonging battery life. We’re just beginning, and all of this is possible thanks to our strong partnership with Microsoft.”
Microsoft’s corporate vice-president for Windows + Devices, Pavan Davuluri, remarked on how Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X Plus 8-core builds on the momentum for Copilot+ PCs, which started gaining traction in May. He highlighted how this cutting-edge platform provides all-day battery life, exceptional performance, and enhanced AI capabilities, making them available to a broader audience. “Together, we will keep pushing the boundaries of what is achievable with Copilot+ PCs across the Windows ecosystem.”
Alongside Asus, several Microsoft PCs outfitted with the Snapdragon X Plus 8-core are now available, in addition to offerings from Acer, Dell Technologies, HP, Lenovo, and Samsung.