Android boost: Why your next phone could be faster but so much cheaper

Android fans will soon be treated to some very impressive specs even if they don’t want to spend a fortune on a flagship device. Tech firm Qualcomm has just announced a swathe of new processors that will launch later this year and they look set to bring better performance and the latest technologies, such as improved 5G, to mid-range and budget devices.

Qualcomm says it is about to launch a total of four new chips which include the Snapdragon 778G Plus 5G, 695 5G, 480 Plus 5G, and 680 4G.

The US company is boasting that they will all help to enable increased performance and capabilities across high, mid, and entry-tier devices.

“These 5G and 4G mobile platforms enable increased performance and capabilities to provide OEMs with additional options to help meet the existing demand,” Qualcomm said during the release.

For example, the new Snapdragon 778G Plus 5G Mobile Platform gets boosted GPU and CPU performance and is designed to deliver cutting-edge mobile gaming and accelerated artificial intelligence (AI) to enable stunning photo and video experiences.

Meanwhile the more entry-level 680 4G has been designed to deliver optimised gaming and improved camera specs including AI-enhanced low light capture technology.

Speaking about the news Deepu John, senior director, product management, Qualcomm Technologies, Inc, said: “Mid-range smartphones are expected to be the main driver for accelerating 5G device adoption – especially in emerging regions.

“These four new additions to our roadmap create significant opportunity for our OEM customers and provides additional options to continue to meet the growing demand for our 5G and 4G mobile platforms.”

There’s no word just yet on what phones will launch with these new processors but firm’s including Nokia, Motorola, Oppo and Xiaomi have all committed to using them in the future.

Speaking about the news, Dan Dery, vice president of products, Motorola Mobility, said “As 5G becomes widely available we continue our commitment to bring this technology to our consumers around the world.

“With the integration of these new Snapdragon mobile platforms into our upcoming 5G and 4G device portfolio, we are enabled to unleash incredible mobile experiences from faster connectivity to enhanced gaming and imaging experiences. Fully aligned with our vision of empowering our consumers to achieve their best.”

And HMD Global, who now own the Nokia brand, added: “The Snapdragon 480 5G Mobile Platform has been an instrumental part of HMD Global’s drive to bring high quality, affordable 5G smartphones, supported by commitments to longevity and reliability, to as many people as possible.”