Qualcomm Introduces New Mixed Reality Chip For Samsung And Google

Technology Edited by Akhil Thomas Published: Jan 05, 2024, 2:16 pm

Qualcomm Introduces New Mixed Reality Chip For Samsung And Google (Image: X @Snapdragon)

Qualcomm, the renowned manufacturer of mobile phone processors, has introduced a new chip designed for virtual and mixed-reality headsets. Qualcomm”s XR chips, named the Snapdragon XR2 Plus Gen 2, boast the capability to power 12 or more high-definition cameras. The chip maker also announced that the Snapdragon XR2 Plus Gen 2 will be used by Samsung and Google for mixed reality devices.

Qualcomm”s latest chip is able to deliver 4.3K spatial computing at 90 frames per second, and this is expected to enhance the visual clarity across different applications. According to Qualcomm, the new “Plus” model helps to unleash a new tier of “more realistic, detailed experiences” in mixed reality (MR) and virtual reality (VR), as it delivers 15 percent higher GPU and 20 percent higher CPU max frequency than the previous version. Notably, the Snapdragon XR2 Plus Gen 2 is a step up from the XR2 Gen 2, used in the Meta Quest 3.

We’re accelerating a new wave of spatial computing experiences with the brand new #Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2. ⚡️ The platform unlocks 4.3K resolution at 90 fps for breathtaking visual clarity across work and play. pic.twitter.com/kpeuSRE9yp

— Snapdragon (@Snapdragon) January 4, 2024

The new chip supports 12 concurrent cameras, and the company says that the Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2-powered devices can effortlessly track the user and their movements. “Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2 unlocks 4.3K resolution which will take XR productivity and entertainment to the next level,” said Hugo Swart, vice president and general manager of XR at Qualcomm, in a statement. Meanwhile, Inkang Song, vice president and head of the technology strategy team at Samsung Electronics, said that Samsung is thrilled to collaborate with Qualcomm Technologies and Google in revolutionizing the mobile industry. The Snapdragon XR2 Plus Gen 2-powered devices are all set to compete with Apple’s Vision Pro, which is just a few weeks away from its much-awaited launch.