Qualcomm Snapdragon plans to stop processors'

Most smartphone users out there still prefer a Snapdragon over a MediaTek simply because of its stability, performance and features. Snapdragon should not be mistaken for a processor as it is not only a ‘processor’ but is a complete solution platform. It refers to the entire hardware that consists of processors, graphics processors, memory, wireless modules, charging chips and much more. Hence, Snapdragon does not want its product to be referred to as a processor, but as a complete product and is going ahead with a new naming structure.

ArsTechnica reports that Qualcomm has a new explanation about the thought process behind the new name. “For decades, the semiconductor industry has used the term “processor” to mean the component that powers the most advanced devices. It’s a word that Qualcomm Technologies has embraced over the years with our Snapdragon brand, or as we say—our Qualcomm Snapdragon processor. But the word is an inadequate representation of what the technology actually is, and the solutions that tens of thousands of Qualcomm Technologies innovators have worked on. In truth, Snapdragon is more than a single component, a piece of silicon, or what many would misinterpret as the CPU; it’s an anthology of technology, comprising hardware, software, and services that are not fully captured in a word like “processor.” That is why Qualcomm Technologies is refining our terminology by referring to Snapdragon as a “platform” instead of a processor.”

The Snapdragon name encompasses features like Qualcomm’s RF front-ends, Quick Charge, its digital-to-analog audio converters, Wi-Fi products, touchscreen controllers, and fingerprint readers, as well as the software and drivers used to make all of this stuff work, mentions ArsTechnica.

The branding will be repositioned to refer to only premium platforms where the SD200 series will now be called Qualcomm Mobile instead of Snapdragon, while the mid-range SD400 and SD600 and the high-end SD800 will remain as before.

‘The rebranding might make Qualcomm’s suite of technology easier to sell to the OEMs who actually buy the hardware and software from Qualcomm, but it also doesn't really change the kinds of features Qualcomm would already be offering alongside Snapdragon chips,’ concludes ArsTechnica.

Snapdragon processors are now dead – Snapdragon platform will continue ahead.