According to sources, the upcoming Qualcomm application processor, Snapdragon 8 Gen 4, will cost significantly more than the previous generation, resulting in pricier smartphones. Sources also predict that most devices powered by the new SoC will be equipped with new silicon batteries, ultrasonic fingerprint sensors, new periscope cameras, and high-specification dust and waterproof features. Additionally, while all standard models will use LPDDR5X memory, the high-end version will feature LPDDR5T, indicating a critical time for manufacturers’ pricing strategies.
Previously, analyst Ming-Chi Kuo stated that the price of the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 will increase by 25-30% due to TSMC’s advanced 3nm process. Meanwhile, ultrasonic fingerprints offer more secure identification, but the cost of this fingerprint solution is much higher than that of optical fingerprints.
Recently, the insider Digital Chat Station released some specifications of a new Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 phone, which, based on the description, most likely corresponds to the Realme GT7 Pro.
According to the report, the Realme GT7 Pro will feature a 1.5K ISO-depth micro-curved screen. The source mentioned in the comments section that the Reno12 can be used as a reference, and it is reported that this design ensures the feel of a curved screen while maintaining the look and feel of a straight screen.
The Realme GT7 Pro will have a 50-megapixel triple camera setup and a 3x periscope telephoto lens with an IMX882 sensor. Unfortunately, despite the periscope telephoto lens, it is unlikely that the GT7 Pro will have a telephoto macro feature.
The source claims that the IMX882 has the advantage of being an ultra-thin module, allowing for a nearly upright volume, and reducing body thickness and weight. However, the disadvantage is that it cannot focus on short-range telephoto macro shots without sacrificing part of its thin and light advantage, presenting a new choice for manufacturers.
Additionally, the phone will use a homegrown single-point ultrasonic fingerprint recognition solution, support IP68 (69) dust and water resistance, and have an extra-large silicon negative battery. Overall, the upgraded hardware specifications will likely lead Realme to increase the device’s cost, but how Realme will manage this remains to be seen.