Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. has announced the introduction of its Snapdragon X platform in India, aiming to broaden the availability of AI-enabled personal computers, after it was introduced at the CES last month. This new platform is positioned as a means of delivering Copilot+ PC experiences to a wider consumer base.
The Snapdragon X platform features a Neural Processing Unit (NPU) capable of 45 TOPS (trillions of operations per second) of AI performance. The company emphasizes the platform’s focus on on-device AI capabilities, performance, and extended battery life.
According to Qualcomm, devices powered by Snapdragon X are designed to offer premium experiences within a portable form factor. The platform utilizes the Qualcomm Oryon CPU, and the company claims performance advantages over competitors in terms of performance per watt. Specifically, Qualcomm states up to 163% faster performance at ISO-power compared to competitors requiring 168% more power.
The integrated GPU is designed to support graphics-intensive tasks such as presentations, web browsing, and content streaming. The 45 TOPS NPU aims to enhance efficiency in various workloads.
Qualcomm highlights the platform’s focus on affordability, aiming to refine user interactions with laptops. Features such as 5G and Wi-Fi 7 connectivity are included, alongside the Snapdragon Sound Technology Suite for audio. Privacy features are incorporated to provide protection from chip to cloud.
The introduction of the Snapdragon X platform in India signifies Qualcomm’s intent to expand the reach of AI PC technology. The platform’s specifications and features are presented as a balance of performance, power efficiency, and integrated AI capabilities.
The first devices in India featuring the Snapdragon X platform are the ASUS Vivobook 16 and Zenbook A14, with a starting price of Rs. 65,990. These devices are currently available for pre-order. Qualcomm anticipates that other Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) will release Snapdragon X-powered devices in the future.
The launch of the Snapdragon X platform in India signifies an expansion of AI PC availability, with a focus on affordability and performance. The platform’s features, including its AI processing capabilities and battery efficiency, are positioned to cater to a broader range of users.
Commenting on the launch, Kedar Kondap, Senior Vice President & General Manager, Compute and Gaming, Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. said:
As AI becomes essential in daily life, we see a great chance to transform the PC industry. In India, the Snapdragon X platform will expand our reach, offering advanced AI-powered computing to a new tier of consumers, making it more affordable and accessible for all. This transformation will significantly boost productivity and user satisfaction.