The new chips feature sensing hubs capable of running small models of up to 200 million parameters, enabling features such as a personal scribe that can differentiate between speakers and build usage-based memory for automating tasks. Qualcomm said the chip can run a complete voice-in and voice-out agent locally.
The Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 includes a new accelerator element for efficient model inference, while the high-end Extreme version can run a 30-billion-parameter mixture-of-experts (MoE) model locally. For comparison, Apple released a 20-billion-parameter MoE model at its WWDC in June.
In addition to AI improvements, the new CPU provides pixel-level camera control, improved stabilization and motion understanding. The Extreme version supports 8K 60fps video recording and 4K240 for ultra HD slow-motion, as well as the new Advanced Professional Video (APV) codec.
Both chips use AI to boost vocals and reduce noise during calls, and feature Qualcomm’s new voice bubble tech to isolate the user’s voice.
Motorola announced the Motorola Signature 27 smartphone, powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Extreme Gen 6, with general availability expected later this year.
Qualcomm has been working on more than 40 AI devices, but industry figures have suggested that most users will interact with AI through their phones rather than dedicated devices. Nothing co-founder Carl Pei and new Apple CEO John Ternus have reinforced this view.