Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6, Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro Specifications Leaked; Snapdragon 8 Gen 6 in Works
Qualcomm is reportedly developing Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 and Gen 6 Pro chipsets using 2nm technology. The tiered approach aims to balance performance and cost, with the Pro variant offering higher specs. Launch is expected in September 2026 amid rising competition from MediaTek.
Mumbai, March 25: Qualcomm is reportedly working on its next generation flagship processors, with leaks suggesting a strategic split into two premium tiers, the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 and Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro. According to industry tipster Digital Chat Station, the chipsets, identified as SM8950 and SM8975, are expected to launch in September 2026. Both processors are likely to use TSMC’s advanced 2nm process, offering improved power efficiency and performance over current 3nm chips.
Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 vs Gen 6 Pro: Performance and Architecture
Leaked specifications indicate both chipsets will adopt a 2+3+3 CPU core architecture, designed to balance high performance with energy efficiency. However, key differences set them apart. The SM8975, expected to be the Pro variant, may feature an Adreno 850 GPU, LPDDR6 memory support, 18MB GMEM and 8MB last level cache. In comparison, the SM8950 is tipped to include an Adreno 845 GPU, 12MB GMEM and LPDDR5X memory, making it a more cost efficient flagship option. OnePlus 15T With Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 and 7,500mAh Battery Set for China Launch on March 24.
2nm Chipset Strategy and Rising Production Costs
The introduction of a tiered flagship lineup reflects rising manufacturing costs associated with 2nm technology. The higher end SM8975 is expected to be limited to ultra premium smartphones, while the SM8950 could see broader adoption across flagship devices. This dual strategy allows brands to choose between performance levels based on pricing and target markets.
Competition With MediaTek Dimensity 9600
Qualcomm is expected to face strong competition from MediaTek, as leaks suggest the upcoming Dimensity 9600 chipset could deliver performance between the two Snapdragon variants. This sets the stage for intense competition in the flagship chipset segment in late 2026. Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 AnTuTu Scores Out, Realme GT 8 Pro To Offer Record-Breaking Performance With New Flagship Processor; Check Details.
Future of Snapdragon Flagship Lineup
Reports also indicate that a standard Snapdragon 8 Gen 6 may be in development alongside the Elite series, though it is likely to feature lower specifications. As the September launch nears, smartphone manufacturers are expected to evaluate these chipset tiers to balance performance, cost and efficiency in upcoming flagship devices for 2026 and 2027.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Mar 25, 2026 10:46 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).