Qualcomm Snapdragon 821 specs rumors: More powerful processor could launch with ASUS' Zenfone 3 Deluxe
Since the launch of the Qualcomm Snapdragon 820 processor earlier this year, consumers would be hard pressed to find a premium or high-end Android-based smartphone without this powerful chip. However, based on the latest reports, it seems that Qualcomm is looking to update its flagship processor lineup with the more capable Snapdragon 821. Initially, the Snapdragon 823 chip was believed to be the next in line, but for reasons still unknown, the company has decided to go with the Snapdragon 821 instead.
The Snapdragon 821's existence was revealed after a promotional material for the ASUS Zenfone 3 Deluxe was leaked. According to the leaked photo, the Zenfone 3 Deluxe would be available with two different processors — the Snapdragon 820 and the Snapdragon 821. While Qualcomm has yet to make an official announcement, it seems that the new chip will debut on the ASUS' new Zenfone 3 Deluxe.
The newest member of the Snapdragon family is also expected to power the upcoming Samsung Galaxy Note 6. The latest version of the Galaxy Note phablet will also have another version powered by the Exynos 8890, which is thought to be more powerful than the Snapdragon processors.
There's not a lot of information out yet, but reports have revealed that the Snapdragon 820 and Snapdragon 821 are both 14-nm chips with four Qualcomm Kyro cores.
At this time, their only difference seems to be in terms of processing speed. The Snapdragon 820 comes with a 2.2 GHz speed, while the Snapdragon 821 comes with a 2.3 GHz speed. While difference in speed appears to be negligible, according to WCCFTech, this will translate to about 18 percent improvement in performance.
The Qualcomm Snapdragon 821 is rumored to arrive this September. The processor could be the final chip released before Qualcomm launches the Snapdragon 830 early next year.
Unfortunately, since reports on the Snapdragon 821 are still quite premature, it's hard to determine which details are legitimate and which ones are mainly speculative. Hopefully, more information will be revealed in due time.