Qualcomm is bolstering its presence in the mobile gaming market with the introduction of three new Snapdragon G series processors designed for Android-based handheld gaming devices. These new chips promise significant performance upgrades and exciting features for gamers on the go. The lineup includes the high-performance Snapdragon G3 Gen 3, the mid-range Snapdragon G2 Gen 2, and the entry-level Snapdragon G1 Gen 2, each catering to different gaming needs and budgets.
Qualcomm Snapdragon G series processors.
Snapdragon G3 Gen 3: Powering the Next Generation of Handheld Gaming
The Snapdragon G3 Gen 3 sits at the top of the new lineup, succeeding the Snapdragon G3x Gen 2. This octa-core processor, featuring a 1+5+2 core configuration (one prime core, five performance cores, and two efficiency cores), promises a substantial 28% increase in graphics performance compared to its predecessor. Key features include hardware-accelerated ray tracing, Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Game Super Resolution, and Adreno Frame Motion Engine 2.0 for smoother visuals. Furthermore, the G3 Gen 3 is the first in the series to support Unreal Engine 5’s Lumen system, enabling advanced lighting and reflections in games. It supports displays up to QHD+ resolution with a 144Hz refresh rate.
Ayaneo Pocket S2 handheld gaming console.
The Ayaneo Pocket S2, launching later this month, will be among the first devices powered by the G3 Gen 3. This handheld boasts improved thermals and a refined input layout compared to its predecessor. The Ayaneo Gaming Pad tablet, scheduled for a May release, will also feature this powerful chip. Another notable device utilizing the G3 Gen 3 is the OnexPlayer Sugar, set to become the world’s first dual-screen Android gaming handheld.
OneX Sugar 1 handheld gaming console.
Snapdragon G2 Gen 2: 144fps Gaming on a Budget
The mid-range Snapdragon G2 Gen 2 also features an octa-core architecture (1+4+3) with one prime core, four performance cores, and three efficiency cores. Qualcomm claims a remarkable 2.3x increase in CPU performance and a 3.8x boost in GPU performance compared to the previous generation. Like the G3 Gen 3, it supports 144Hz QHD+ displays. A new Retroid handheld is expected to launch with the G2 Gen 2 in the coming months.
Snapdragon G1 Gen 2: Cloud Gaming and Entry-Level Performance
The Snapdragon G1 Gen 2 targets entry-level handhelds and cloud gaming devices. It utilizes a 6+2 core configuration (two performance cores and six efficiency cores) and boasts an 80% improvement in CPU performance and a 25% increase in GPU performance thanks to the Adreno A12 GPU. It supports displays up to Full HD+ resolution with a 120Hz refresh rate.
Retroid Pocket handheld gaming console.
The Retroid Pocket PR Classic, set to launch later this month, will be among the first devices powered by the G1 Gen 2. It will feature an OLED screen, a 5,000mAh battery, and active cooling.
Conclusion: A New Era for Mobile Gaming
With the introduction of the Snapdragon G3 Gen 3, G2 Gen 2, and G1 Gen 2 processors, Qualcomm is poised to elevate the mobile gaming experience across a range of devices and price points. From high-performance handhelds to affordable cloud gaming solutions, these new chips promise enhanced performance, improved graphics, and exciting new features for gamers on the go.
