Highlights
- The Snapdragon G3 Gen 3, G2 Gen 2, and G1 Gen 2 unveiled targeting handheld gaming.
- The platforms feature improved CPU/GPU performance, Wi-Fi 7 for better connectivity, and optimised efficiency for extended gaming sessions.
- The AYANEO Gaming Pad and Pocket S2 integrate Snapdragon G3 Gen 3 for advanced gaming experiences.
- Devices featuring the Snapdragon G Series including those by AYANEO, ONEXSUGAR and Retroid Pocket are set to release in Q1 2025.
Qualcomm has introduced its latest Snapdragon G Series lineup, designed specifically for handheld gaming devices. Announced at the Game Developers Conference, the new platforms including Snapdragon G3 Gen 3, Snapdragon G2 Gen 2 and Snapdragon G1 Gen 2 aim to deliver enhanced performance across different gaming segments. Here’s what we know about the new platforms.
Snapdragon G Series – What’s New?
Caption – Snapdragon G3 Gen 3, Snapdragon G2 Gen 2 and Snapdragon G1 Gen 2 making details. (Image credit – Qualcomm)
“The Snapdragon G Series Gaming Platforms are redefining on-the-go gaming with advanced performance and immersive experiences. These next-generation Snapdragon G Series processors will power the future of handheld gaming by supporting a wide range of play types and form factors for manufacturers and developers to innovate around,” said Micah Knapp, Senior Director, Product Management at Qualcomm Technologies, Inc.
Caption – Snapdragon G3 Gen 3, Snapdragon G2 Gen 2 and Snapdragon G1 Gen 2 key improvements to count on. (Image credit – Qualcomm)
Snapdragon G3 Gen 3 – The Flagship Performer
The Snapdragon G3 Gen 3 is Qualcomm’s most powerful gaming platform yet. It’s the first Snapdragon G Series chip to support Lumen, Unreal Engine 5’s advanced global illumination and reflections system, on Android handhelds.
Key improvements include:
- 30% faster CPU performance
- 28% better GPU capabilities
- Wi-Fi 7 support for lower latency and faster connections
- Enhanced power efficiency for extended gaming sessions
Snapdragon G2 Gen 2 – Optimised for Cloud Gaming
Built for dedicated gaming devices, the Snapdragon G2 Gen 2 balances performance and efficiency. It supports gaming at 144 frames per second (FPS) and delivers:
- 3x CPU boost over its predecessor
- 8x GPU improvement
- Wi-Fi 7 for seamless cloud gaming
Snapdragon G1 Gen 2 – Cloud Gaming Made Smoother
Aimed at cloud gaming on Android handhelds, the Snapdragon G1 Gen 2 can deliver 1080p gaming at 120 FPS over Wi-Fi. Performance upgrades include:
- 80% faster CPU
- 25% better GPU performance
Coming in 2025 – Devices Powered by Snapdragon G Series
Caption – Devices to feature the Snapdragon G Series platforms. (Image credit – Qualcomm)
OEMs like AYANEO, ONEXSUGAR and Retroid Pocket will launch devices featuring the new Snapdragon G Series in Q1 2025.
AYANEO Unveils First Snapdragon G3 Gen 3 Handhelds
Caption – AYANEO unveils first handheld devices featuring the newly introduced Snapdragon G3 Gen 3 platforms. (Image credit – Ayaneo)
AYANEO has introduced two new gaming devices, both powered by Snapdragon G3 Gen 3. Here’s what we know about the new devices.
AYANEO Gaming Pad
Caption – AYANEO Gaming Pad. (Image credit – Ayaneo)
The AYANEO Gaming Pad is essentially an 8.3-inch Android tablet with detachable controllers on either side, offering a gaming experience similar to existing mobile gaming controllers. It features a 120Hz 1440p display and supports various peripherals, making it a versatile option for gamers.
Caption – AYANEO Gaming Pad design. (Image credit – Ayaneo)
The device also includes an integrated cooling fan on the back, which prominently displays the Snapdragon G3 Gen 3 branding. Its design is somewhat reminiscent of Nothing’s aesthetic but with a subtler look.
While AYANEO emphasises the device’s high battery capacity, specific details on battery size and Android version remain undisclosed.
AYANEO Pocket S2
Caption – AYANEO Pocket S2 officially introduced after Snapdragon G3 Gen 3. (Image credit – Ayaneo)
On the other hand, the AYANEO Pocket S2 follows a more traditional handheld gaming design, similar to the Nintendo Switch. It features a 6.3-inch 1440p IPS display and upgraded controls with Hall-effect joysticks for improved durability and precision.
Unlike the Gaming Pad, the Pocket S2 has a powerful cooling system without large visible fan holes. Both devices are built with a CNC-machined chassis, ensuring a premium build quality.
While pricing hasn’t been revealed yet, AYANEO’s 8.3-inch Gaming Pad could fill a gap in the mid-size gaming tablet market. With Qualcomm’s new chips, handheld gaming is set for a major upgrade.
FAQs
Q1. What is the purpose of Qualcomm’s new Snapdragon G Series?
Answer. The Snapdragon G Series is designed specifically for handheld gaming devices, offering enhanced performance and immersive experiences across different gaming segments.
Q2. What are the key features of the Snapdragon G3 Gen 3 platform?
Answer. The Snapdragon G3 Gen 3 offers 30% faster CPU performance, 28% better GPU capabilities, Wi-Fi 7 support for lower latency, and enhanced power efficiency, while also being the first to support Unreal Engine 5’s Lumen system on Android handhelds.
Q3. What distinguishes the Snapdragon G2 Gen 2 from its predecessor?
Answer. The Snapdragon G2 Gen 2 delivers a 2.3x CPU boost, 3.8x GPU improvement, supports 144 FPS gaming, and features Wi-Fi 7 for seamless cloud gaming performance.
Q4. What are the highlights of AYANEO’s Snapdragon G3 Gen 3-powered devices?
Answer. AYANEO’s Gaming Pad features an 8.3-inch 120Hz 1440p display with detachable controllers, while the Pocket S2 offers a 6.3-inch handheld design with Hall-effect joysticks and premium CNC-machined chassis.
Q5. When will devices featuring the new Snapdragon G Series be available?
Answer. Devices powered by Snapdragon G Series, including those from AYANEO, ONEXSUGAR, and Retroid Pocket, are expected to launch in Q1 2025.
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