The Snapdragon 8 Elite might continue to be featured in affordable yet high-performance smartphones, with rumors suggesting that devices with Qualcomm’s flagship SoC could be priced under $350. Qualcomm’s release of the Snapdragon 8 Elite, equipped with its in-house Oryon cores and built on TSMC’s advanced 3nm process, marked a bold move to compete directly with Apple.
This cutting-edge technology offered the best silicon available, but its steep price meant that manufacturers had to make sacrifices elsewhere to keep their products profitable.
Despite its premium price tag, the Snapdragon 8 Elite could still make its way into budget-friendly devices, with the upcoming Redmi K90 rumored to be one of the first to feature the chipset. According to MyDrivers, the device, codenamed Annibale and identified by the number 2510DRK44C, will be priced at around $348 (2,500 yuan), making it an affordable option for those seeking high-end performance without breaking the bank.
However, like most budget smartphones, the Redmi K90 may come with a few compromises. To meet the budget-friendly price point, the device may feature a less impressive display and camera hardware compared to more expensive models. Still, for those who prioritize having a top-tier chipset, the Redmi K90 might be a great deal, offering performance close to the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 2 at a fraction of the price.
This strategy mirrors Apple’s approach, offering consumers exceptional value on non-flagship products while avoiding unsold inventory of premium chipsets. If Qualcomm indeed sells the Snapdragon 8 Elite at a lower price, it could lead to even more devices incorporating this powerful chipset, making it a compelling option for budget-conscious users who want top-tier silicon without paying a flagship price.