Qualcomm Testing Snapdragon X2 Elite with 18 Cores and 64GB RAM, Aiming for Desktop and Server Markets

A seasoned tech tipster, Roland Quandt, has reported that Qualcomm is currently testing a new chipset, known as the Snapdragon X2 Elite (or SC8480XP), featuring a significant boost in processing power and memory capacity. According to Quandt, who broke the news via WinFuture.de, the Snapdragon X2 Elite is being tested with a configuration that includes 64GB of RAM, marking a substantial improvement over previous models. Quandt is confident that the upcoming chip will feature the Oryon V3 CPU architecture and include 18 cores, a 50% increase compared to the first-gen Snapdragon X Elite, which had 12 cores. The additional cores, combined with the new architecture, are expected to deliver a significant performance uplift. This move comes after Qualcomm’s initial Snapdragon X Elite venture faced challenges last June. Despite Microsoft’s support in developing Copilot PCs, consumer interest waned rapidly as rival companies, AMD and Intel, quickly introduced their own power-efficient and AI-optimized processors for laptops. The Snapdragon X2 Elite is rumored to not only target the laptop market but also extend its reach to desktops and even server environments. This expansion is suggested by reports of Qualcomm testing the chip with advanced cooling solutions, including a 120mm radiator-based all-in-one (AiO) system. Such a cooling setup could indicate the chip's potential for handling high-performance tasks typical of desktop and server applications. In terms of other specifications, the Snapdragon X2 Elite is said to be undergoing tests in a System in Package (SiP) format, featuring up to 64GB of RAM and 1TB of onboard SSD storage. These enhancements suggest that Qualcomm is aiming to create a versatile and powerful SoC that can cater to a wide range of computing needs. Quandt shared this information during Computex 2025, where he was closely monitoring Qualcomm’s activities. Although official details were scarce, sources from either Qualcomm contacts or device partners may have provided insights into the forthcoming chip. Until Qualcomm or a recognized partner formally announces the Snapdragon X2 Elite, however, these details should be taken with a grain of salt. Given that Computex has passed without any official unveiling, the next opportunity for Qualcomm to reveal the Snapdragon X2 Elite will likely be at the Snapdragon Summit 2025, scheduled for September. During this summit, we can expect to see not only the new processor but also prototypes and design concepts from Qualcomm’s partners, showcasing how they plan to integrate the chipset into future Windows-on-Arm devices. For those interested in staying updated with the latest developments in tech, following reliable sources like Tom's Hardware on Google News is highly recommended. Subscribing to their notifications ensures you have instant access to up-to-date news, analysis, and reviews as they become available.