Qualcomm introduced has its new Snapdragon G series, aiming to disrupt the competitive handheld gaming market. With the Snapdragon G3 Gen 3, G2 Gen 2, and G1 Gen 2 chips, Qualcomm is positioning itself as a direct challenger to Intel and AMD, the current leaders in handheld gaming processors.
“The Snapdragon G Series Gaming Platforms are redefining on-the-go gaming with advanced performance and immersive experiences,”said Micah Knapp, Senior Director, Product Management at Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. “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.”
Snapdragon G3 Gen 3: Performance and Innovation for Flagship Devices
At the forefront of Qualcomm’s offering is the Snapdragon G3 Gen 3, designed to deliver substantial performance gains.
Featuring a new Kryo CPU setup, the chip includes one Prime core, five Performance cores, and two Efficiency cores.
Qualcomm promises a 30% boost in CPU performance and a 28% increase in GPU performance compared to its predecessor. With the addition of the Adreno A32 GPU, the G3 Gen 3 introduces support for ray tracing, a feature typically reserved for high-end gaming PCs.
This capability significantly enhances visual fidelity, especially in titles with dynamic lighting and reflections.
In terms of gaming capabilities, the Snapdragon G3 Gen 3 supports QHD+ displays at up to 144 Hz, making it a compelling choice for players who want a fluid and immersive experience on handheld devices.
Devices like the Ayaneo Pocket S2 and OneXPlayer OneXSugar (see below) will feature this chip, allowing users to enjoy AAA games with smoother gameplay and more detailed graphics. Qualcomm promises that Snapdragon G3 Gen 3 will provide gaming experiences that are truly on par with dedicated gaming PCs.
One of the most notable features of the G3 Gen 3 is its compatibility with Lumen, Unreal Engine 5’s dynamic lighting system. Lumen allows for more realistic global illumination and reflections, which will be crucial for enhancing the realism and depth of handheld gaming graphics.
This ensures that the G3 Gen 3 is not just about raw power but also about improving visual immersion, even in portable formats.
Qualcomm’s entry into the handheld gaming sector is a strategic move designed to challenge the established dominance of Intel and AMD in this space. For years, Intel’s x86-based chips and AMD’s RDNA 2-based processors have powered devices like the Steam Deck and Nintendo Switch.
Now, Qualcomm’s Snapdragon G series is positioned to offer an ARM-based alternative, typically known for its use in mobile devices.
The G3 Gen 3’s ability to support high-end features like ray tracing and dynamic lighting systems positions Qualcomm as a serious contender in the world of portable gaming.
In addition to raw performance, the Snapdragon G3 Gen 3 also integrates Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.3 support, ensuring faster and more reliable online gaming experiences.
These advancements aim to improve multiplayer gameplay and reduce latency, which are key factors for handheld devices that rely on wireless connections.
Snapdragon G2 Gen 2: Mid-Tier Performance with a Focus on Graphics
For those not in need of the high-end performance of the G3 Gen 3, the Snapdragon G2 Gen 2 provides a more affordable option without compromising on quality. The new Adreno A22 GPU in the G2 Gen 2 offers a 3.8X improvement in graphics performance over the previous generation.
This makes it a good choice for mid-tier handheld gaming devices that need to handle demanding titles with higher frame rates and sharper visuals.
With support for QHD+ displays and enhanced graphics features, the Snapdragon G2 Gen 2 will be a popular choice for gaming consoles like the Ayaneo Gaming Pad (see below), which will integrate the chip for a balanced mix of performance and value.
Snapdragon G1 Gen 2: Accessible Performance for Budget Devices
The entry-level Snapdragon G1 Gen 2 rounds out Qualcomm’s new lineup. While it’s not designed for the most demanding gaming experiences, the G1 Gen 2 delivers solid performance for budget-conscious consumers.
With a 25% increase in GPU performance and an 80% boost in CPU performance over the previous generation, the G1 Gen 2 ensures a smooth gaming experience even at a lower price point.
Supporting Full HD+ displays at up to 120 Hz, the Snapdragon G1 Gen 2 brings fluid gameplay to entry-level gaming devices. Although it lacks the advanced features of the G2 and G3 Gen 3, its affordability makes it an appealing option for casual gamers or those looking for an entry point into the handheld gaming market.
Snapdragon G Series core specs (Source: Qualcomm)
First Gaming Handhelds to Feature Qualcomm’s New Chips
With the launch of the Snapdragon G series, several handheld gaming manufacturers have already announced their plans to integrate Qualcomm’s latest chips into their upcoming devices. These handhelds, powered by the Snapdragon G3 Gen 3, G2 Gen 2, and G1 Gen 2, promise to bring improved gaming performance, high refresh rates, and enhanced graphics to the portable gaming market.
Ayaneo Pocket S2 and Ayaneo Gaming Pad
Ayaneo, a company known for its premium handheld gaming PCs, has confirmed that its new Pocket S2 and Ayaneo Gaming Padwill feature the Snapdragon G3 Gen 3.
The Pocket S2 is expected to deliver high-end gaming performance with support for QHD+ displays at 144 Hz, making it one of the most powerful ARM-based handhelds available. The device integrates a Hall-effect joystick for improved precision and a fully optimized cooling system with an ultra-large heat sink and active cooling fan to ensure stable performance under heavy gaming loads.
The AYANEO Pocket S2 is designed with an ergonomic, CNC all-metal frame for enhanced durability and comfort during extended play. It features dual X-axis motors for immersive haptic feedback and AYANEO’s self-developed AYASpace + AYAHome software suite, offering advanced performance tuning and customization.
The device supports Wi-Fi 7 connectivity, ensuring faster and more stable multiplayer gaming and cloud streaming. Its high-capacity battery, combined with efficient power management, allows for longer gaming sessions, complemented by fast charging support to reduce downtime.
The AYANEO Pocket S2 (Image: AYANEO)
The Ayaneo Gaming Pad, meanwhile, will provide a more compact design while still taking advantage of the G3 Gen 3’s ray tracing capabilities and Wi-Fi 7 support for seamless online gaming.
Designed with a 8.3-inch 1440p 120Hz display, the AYANEO Gaming Pad delivers high refresh rates and visuals across a variety of games, from AAA titles to retro classics. The handheld also introduces the Explorer Edition, a model featuring a transparent glass back cover and a CNC-machined all-metal frame, emphasizing both aesthetics and durability. To sustain high-performance gaming, it includes a gaming-grade turbo cooling system, ensuring stable frame rates even during extended play sessions.
Beyond gaming performance, the AYANEO Gaming Pad offers a high-end audio and control experience, featuring quad-chamber speakers for immersive sound and six-axis gyroscope support for precise motion controls. It also includes a 50MP main camera and a 13MP ultra-wide sensor, making it one of the few gaming tablets with professional-grade imaging capabilities. AYANEO has positioned the device as a flagship Android gaming handheld, aiming to push the boundaries of mobile gaming while integrating support for external controllers, keyboards, and other peripherals.
The AYANEO Gaming Pad (Image: AYANEO)
OneXPlayer OneXSugar
OneXPlayer has also jumped on board, confirming that its upcoming OneXSugar handheld will incorporate the Snapdragon G3 Gen 3. Known for its Windows-based gaming devices, OneXPlayer is now embracing Qualcomm’s ARM-based platform, aiming to provide a lightweight, high-performance alternative to x86-powered handhelds like the Steam Deck and ROG Ally.
It features a unique transformable design that allows users to switch between a traditional horizontal handheld mode and a dual-screen configuration reminiscent of the Nintendo DS. This transformation is achieved through a swing-out secondary screen and twin-hinged gamepads, providing versatility for various gaming experiences. The device also emphasizes modularity, allowing users to customize controls and adapt the form factor to suit different gaming scenarios.
The OneXSugar (Image: OneXPlayer)
Retroid Pocket (Next Generation)
For gamers looking for a more affordable option, the next-generation Retroid Pocket will be among the first devices to use the Snapdragon G1 Gen 2. It features a vertical form factor reminiscent of the original Game Boy, aiming to provide a nostalgic gaming experience. This entry-level handheld will offer Full HD+ gaming at 120 Hz, making it a compelling option for retro gaming enthusiasts and casual players who want a smooth, cost-effective portable gaming experience.
Under the hood, the Retroid Pocket Classic is powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon G1 Gen 2 chipset, featuring an 8-core Kryo CPU with 2 performance cores and 6 efficiency cores, along with an Adreno A12 GPU.このプロセッサは、効率と持続的なパフォーマンスのために設計されており、SEGA土星時代までゲームをエミュレートするのに適しています。
デバイスは2つの構成を提供します。2133MHzで4GBのLPDDR4X RAMがEMMC 5.1ストレージ、または6GBのRAMを保存します。 Both configurations include a microSD card slot for expandable storage, allowing ample space for game libraries.
It houses a 5,000mAh battery, ensuring extended gaming sessions without frequent recharging. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 5.1, facilitating online multiplayer gaming and connectivity with various peripherals.
ハンドヘルドは、D-PAD、A/B/X/Yボタンを備えており、より広範なゲーム、特にSega Saturn Eraのゲームと互換性を高めるためのオプションの6つのボタンレイアウトを提供します。また、L1、L2、R1、およびR2ショルダーボタンも含まれており、さまざまなゲームジャンルに包括的な制御スキームを提供します。 src=”data:image/svg+xml;nitro-empty-id=MTg0MToxMDc0-1;base64,PHN2ZyB2aWV3Qm94PSIwIDAgMTAyNCA1NzYi IHdpZHRoPSIxMDI0IiBoZWlnaHQ9IjU3NiIgeG1sbnM9Imh0dHA6Ly93d3cudzMub3JnLzIwMDAvc3ZnIj48L3N2Zz4=”>Theレトロイドポケットクラシック（画像:レトロイドポケット）
多くのメーカーが参加することが期待されています
Onexplayer、およびRetroidはSnapdragon駆動のハンドヘルドを発表した最初の企業です。ハンドヘルドデバイス用の高性能ゲームチップへのQualcommのシフトは、今後数か月でより多くのメーカーがGシリーズを採用することを示唆しており、IntelとAMDのX86ベースのプロセッサによって伝統的に支配されていたスペースに競争を延ばします。 linger.特に、レイトレースと高度なグラフィカルな特徴を統合するG3 Gen 3にとって、消費電力は制限要因になる可能性があります。
は、バッテリー寿命によって既に制約されているハンドヘルドデバイスを使用して、強力なグラフィックプロセッシングからの追加負荷が料金間のプレイセッションの短縮につながる可能性があります。 Qualcommは、実際のゲームシナリオでこの問題にどのように対処するかについての具体的な詳細をまだ明らかにしていません。さらに、ハードウェアの改善は明らかですが、G3 Gen 3の成功はソフトウェアの最適化に大きく依存します。ゲーム開発者は、特にRay Tracingやその他の高度な視覚機能に関しては、チップの機能を最大限に活用するためにタイトルを適応させる必要があります。適切なソフトウェアサポートがなければ、ハードウェアからのパフォーマンスの向上は十分に活用されていない可能性があります。
Qualcommは、ハンドヘルドゲーム市場で地位を獲得するように見えます。パフォーマンスと電力効率のバランスを取り、開発者が新しいSnapdragonチップのゲームを最適化することを保証する必要があります。 Snapdragon G3 Gen 3 in comparison to existing solutions.ただし、ハイエンドのグラフィカルな機能と次世代接続標準の統合をサポートして、Snapdragon Gシリーズは大きな約束を保持しています。