Qualcomm Testing Snapdragon X2 Elite with 18 Cores and Up to 64GB RAM, Eyeing Desktop and Server Markets
Industry insider Roland Quandt, widely recognized for his exclusive tech tips through WinFuture.de, recently revealed that Qualcomm is currently testing a new variant of the Snapdragon X2 Elite, known as the SC8480XP. The chip is reportedly configured with 64GB of RAM, indicating a significant leap in memory capacity. Quandt is particularly confident that the device will feature the Oryon V3 CPU architecture with 18 cores, which represents a 50% increase over the first-generation Snapdragon X Elite. This development is highly anticipated, especially among PC enthusiasts, as Qualcomm aims to rectify the shortcomings of its initial foray into high-performance computing. Last June, the company collaborated with Microsoft to introduce Copilot PCs powered by the first Oryon architecture processors. Despite the early promise, interest waned quickly as competitors AMD and Intel swiftly released their own AI- and NPU-enhanced laptop processors, offering comparable performance and power efficiency. The rumors surrounding the SC8480XP suggest that Qualcomm is not only targeting the mobile and laptop markets but also potentially expanding into desktops and even servers. Reports indicate that the company is testing this chip with advanced cooling solutions, such as a 120mm all-in-one (AiO) radiator, which is a notable shift from previous generations. In terms of onboard specifications, Qualcomm has been experimenting with a System in Package (SiP) format for the SC8480XP, integrating up to 48GB of RAM and a 1TB SSD. The latest revelation hints that the company may offer configurations with up to 64GB of RAM, further enhancing the device's capabilities. Roland Quandt’s insights came during his coverage of Computex 2025, where he closely monitored Qualcomm's activities. While the exact source of the leak remains unclear—whether it was a Qualcomm contact or a device manufacturer—tech enthusiasts should temper their expectations until Qualcomm or one of its partners officially confirms the details. Given that Computex 2025 has concluded without any official announcements about the Snapdragon X2 Elite or potential variants, the most likely venue for the unveiling will be Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Summit 2025 in September. This event traditionally serves as a platform for the company to reveal its latest advancements in mobile and computing technology. Tech enthusiasts can look forward to not only the official release of the SC8480XP but also the designs developed by Qualcomm’s partners for these next-generation Windows-on-Arm devices. For timely updates on Qualcomm’s latest developments and other tech news, follow sources like Tom's Hardware on platforms such as Google News. Stay informed and ready for the launch that could redefine the landscape of high-performance computing.