Qualcomm has introduced the Snapdragon 4s Gen 2, aiming to reclaim its dominance in the 5G chipset market. This new entry-level chipset, equipped with a Gigabit-capable 5G modem, significantly cuts back on features to remain cost-effective.
Compared to Qualcomm’s high-end Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, the differences are stark. While the 4s Gen 2 supports speeds up to 1 Gbps, the 8 Gen 3 can reach up to 10 Gbps with its advanced X75 modem. Additionally, the flagship model features Wi-Fi 7, faster charging, higher RAM frequency, superior display refresh rates, and enhanced camera capabilities, alongside extensive on-device AI functions—features omitted in the 4s Gen 2.
These design choices are strategic, targeting the growing market for affordable 5G smartphones. Omdia’s recent data shows a 62% year-on-year increase in shipments of 5G smartphones priced under $250, totaling 62.8 million units in the first quarter. Qualcomm targets an addressable market of about 2.8 billion consumers looking for budget-friendly options.
Chris Patrick, SVP and general manager of mobile handsets at Qualcomm, emphasized the balance between affordability and performance in the Snapdragon 4s Gen 2, aiming to make 5G technology more accessible.
However, Qualcomm faces stiff competition from MediaTek, which surpassed Qualcomm in the 5G chipset market in the first quarter, thanks to the popularity of cost-effective handsets. MediaTek’s Dimensity 700 chipset, comparable to the Snapdragon 4s Gen 2, boasts similar processor speeds, RAM frequency, display refresh rates, and Wi-Fi 5, but with superior 5G carrier aggregation, offering download speeds up to 2.77 Gbps.
Xiaomi is set to be the first OEM to launch a device featuring the Snapdragon 4s Gen 2, expected by year-end. Xiaomi’s president of India, Muralikrishnan B, highlighted the potential of the new chipset to broaden 5G connectivity and enhance global communication.
