Snapdragon 8s Elite Rumors Heat Up: Could Xiaomi Lead the Charge in 2025?
Qualcomm has only just rolled out its Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, and while the tech world is still exploring its capabilities, speculation about a follow-up chip is already making waves. Enter the Snapdragon 8s Elite, a rumored addition to Qualcomm’s processor lineup, which is now being linked to a new Xiaomi smartphone expected to launch in early 2025.
Positioning the Snapdragon 8s Elite in Qualcomm’s Lineup
Qualcomm’s naming conventions can often leave enthusiasts scratching their heads, and the Snapdragon 8s Elite is no exception. Reports suggest this chip will slot somewhere between the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 and the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 in terms of performance. According to a prominent insider on Weibo, this placement might mean it won’t rival the power of the Snapdragon 8 Elite but will serve as a more balanced alternative in the hierarchy.
Currently, this middle-ground role is occupied by the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3. This overlap raises questions about the accuracy of the rumors, as it’s unusual for Qualcomm to muddy its product tiers with similarly positioned chips. However, the emerging details hint that the 8s Elite could be a step forward in certain areas, particularly when it comes to battery technology and device compatibility.
A Closer Look at the Chip’s Specs
The Snapdragon 8s Elite is reportedly being identified by the model number SM8735, which hints at a distinct design direction compared to the Snapdragon 8 Elite. Unlike the Oryon cores used in the Snapdragon 8 Elite, the 8s Elite may revert to using ARM cores, potentially signaling a more power-efficient or cost-effective approach.
Perhaps the most intriguing rumor about the Snapdragon 8s Elite is its reported support for 7,000mAh batteries. If accurate, this would set a new benchmark for battery capacity in mainstream smartphones. Even devices known for their robust battery life, such as the Asus ROG Phone 9 Pro, currently max out at 6,000mAh. The ability to integrate such a high-capacity battery could make the Snapdragon 8s Elite a game-changer for endurance-focused smartphones.
Xiaomi’s Role in the Snapdragon 8s Elite Debut
Rumors suggest that Xiaomi may be the first manufacturer to adopt the Snapdragon 8s Elite, with a new phone expected to showcase the chip in 2025. This device is said to feature a small, curved display reminiscent of the Vivo X200 series. Additional details point to a 1.5K resolution screen, a dual-selfie camera setup, and a Leica-tuned rear camera system.
These features hint that the device could belong to Xiaomi’s Civi series, known for its focus on style and camera performance. Historically, the Civi line hasn’t seen a broad global release, so it’s unclear whether this Snapdragon 8s Elite-powered phone will follow the same limited availability or aim for a wider audience.
Anticipated Launch Timeline
The Snapdragon 8s Elite and the accompanying Xiaomi phone are both rumored to launch in the first half of 2025, potentially around March or April. This timing aligns with Xiaomi’s release schedule, as the Civi 4 Pro debuted in mid-March 2024. If these dates hold true, we could see the Snapdragon 8s Elite in action sooner than expected.
What It Means for the Smartphone Market
If Qualcomm delivers on the rumored capabilities of the Snapdragon 8s Elite, it could fill an important niche for devices that prioritize battery life and balanced performance without venturing into the ultra-premium space. Coupled with Xiaomi’s innovative designs, this chip might pave the way for more accessible yet feature-rich smartphones.
However, much of this remains speculative. Qualcomm’s plans and Xiaomi’s device strategy could shift as we move closer to 2025. For now, the Snapdragon 8s Elite represents an exciting glimpse into the future of mobile technology, and Xiaomi’s rumored involvement only adds to the anticipation.
