Qualcomm is currently preparing its new processor generation named “Oryon” for desktop systems. According to entries in online databases, there could be multiple variants of this processor. Over six years since its introduction, Windows on ARM is still awaiting its breakthrough. Microsoft took a while to mature the system, but it's now considered reliable. The anticipation now shifts to Qualcomm and their new processor generation, expected to be unveiled by the end of the year.
Details on Snapdragon 8cx Gen 4
German news outlet Winfuture reports that Qualcomm is planning several versions of the Snapdragon 8cx Gen 4, internally codenamed “Hamoa”. While the top model will feature 12 computing cores, there might be other versions with ten and eight cores. These cores will be divided into “Performance Cores” and “Efficiency Cores”. All versions are expected to have four Efficiency Cores designed to handle lightweight tasks energy-efficiently, contributing to improved battery life. Depending on the model, there will be four, six, or eight high-performance cores, which will be the primary factor distinguishing the performance of each variant.
Snapdragon's Competition with Apple's M-Series
Qualcomm has expressed its intention to not only match Apple's M-series with its CPUs but to surpass them. This bold statement could have repercussions for the manufacturer. For Microsoft and Windows on ARM, the competition is secondary. The main concern is whether PC manufacturers will adopt this technology and if Windows PCs with ARM CPUs will be priced appropriately. Currently, these devices are considered too expensive.
Microsoft Developing Arm Chips for Windows 12 to Compete with Apple
Microsoft is also gearing up to challenge Apple's M-series chips with its own custom ARM processors. The company wants to create its own custom silicon that can rival Apple's M-series chips in terms of performance and efficiency. Microsoft will likely keep its Arm push for the launch of Windows 12, which will likely happen at the end of 2024. It is widely believed Microsoft wants Windows 12 to optimize seamlessly across software and hardware experiences.
