In the year 2024, anticipation is building for the imminent release of the Apple Vision Pro Extended Reality (XR) headset, promising revolutionary spatial computing XR experiences. In response to this, Qualcomm has unveiled its most powerful XR chip to date, the Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2 processor, poised to compete with Apple in collaboration with Samsung and Google.
The All New Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2
The Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2 introduces notable improvements, building upon the foundation laid by the XR2 Gen 2 chip currently driving various AR/VR headsets, including the Meta Quest 3. This enhanced chip supports a remarkable 4.3K resolution per eye at up to 90 frames per second, delivering heightened image clarity and an immersive XR experience compared to its predecessor, which supports up to 3K resolution per eye.
The new XR chip boasts a 20% increase in CPU frequency and a 15% boost in GPU frequency, providing unprecedented power for headsets featuring this cutting-edge chipset. Additionally, the processor can accommodate 12 or more concurrent cameras, enhancing user tracking and movement capabilities.
While these enhancements mark a significant step forward, users with devices already equipped with the Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 chip won’t experience substantial differences. Other specifications and features, such as WiFi 7/WiFi 6/WiFi 6E support, next-gen Spectra ISP, and 12ms full-color video see-through, remain consistent.
In tandem with the XR2+ Gen 2 chip announcement, Qualcomm has introduced a new MR and VR reference platform to expedite the development of devices powered by either the Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2 or Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 chip. Qualcomm’s collaboration with hardware manufacturers, including HTC, is set to drive innovation in the XR space.
The announcement also sheds light on Qualcomm’s collaboration with Samsung and Google, aiming to deliver groundbreaking XR experiences. Details of this collaboration are currently undisclosed, but there have been speculations about Samsung’s development of a new Galaxy XR headset, potentially unveiled during the upcoming Galaxy S24 series launch event.
Inkang Song, VP and Head of the Technology Strategy Team at Samsung Electronics, expressed their joint commitment to creating a superior XR experience for Galaxy users in collaboration with Qualcomm.
