A previously leaked specifications sheet of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 revealed that Qualcomm will launch two versions of its upcoming flagship chipset, with both of them sporting the designation numbers ‘SM8750’ and ‘SM8750P.’ While the letter ‘P’ is likely for the performance variant, one tipster notes that this version will not feature an integrated 5G modem and may be found in tablets. Assuming that you have forgotten, this is a strategy that Qualcomm followed in the past, where its clients would have to purchase a standalone 5G modem for a premium.
Last time Qualcomm followed a Snapdragon 8 Gen 4-like approach was with the Snapdragon 855 launch
Irrespective of how much performance the SM8750P version brings to the table, @negativeonehero has pointed out the biggest difference in this Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 version, and that is the lack of a baseband chip. In his post on X, he mentions that this SoC will only be used in Wi-Fi-only tablets, hinting that various manufacturers also intend to launch bigger-screen products in the future. However, a major difference like this can only mean that Qualcomm plans to charge its clientele a hefty premium.
The San Diego firm recently announced the Snapdragon X80 5G modem in February of this year and stated that Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 flagships launching in H2 2024 will feature this baseband chip. As for why Qualcomm would pursue a business practice like this, it is not like this approach is something new for the chipset manufacturer. The Snapdragon 855 that launched in 2018 was also introduced without a 5G modem, as phone makers had the option to stick with 4G connectivity only since 5G adoption was at a nascent stage.
P in "SM8750P" means no baseband. The P variant is used in Wi-Fi only tablets.
Different bins/revisions of a Snapdragon chip is denoted by a suffix like -AC, -AD... https://t.co/dtQIvjRXdi— sun.dtsi (@negativeonehero) August 21, 2024
However, flagships featuring a 5G baseband band were probably more expensive as Qualcomm’s partners had to pay a premium to use such technology. With 5G connectivity even more ubiquitous now, manufacturers will have little choice but to pay the extra sum. Back in July, we reported that orders for the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 had not been placed as yet possibly due to this reason, with the chipset previously hinted by a Qualcomm executive to be more expensive than the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3.
This pretty much explains why Samsung wants to resume its dual-chipset launch strategy and why Apple continues its in-house 5G modem development. As these mounting costs pile up, MediaTek has the opportunity to seize some market share away from Qualcomm by offering a single Dimensity 9400 variant featuring a 5G modem. Eventually, we can see some partners shifting away from the Snapdragon brand in favor of a less expensive and more favorable path, but time will tell if this rumor turns out to be true.
News Source: @negativeonehero
About the author: Omar Sohail is a reporter and analyst for Wccftech's mobile section, specializing in the technology and business of the mobile industry. His expertise lies in the intricate hardware supply chain, covering developments in semiconductor manufacturing, chip lithography, and camera sensor technology.
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