Qualcomm 's new Snapdragon 8cx processor has already been known for its excellent performance, with its 8th generation Intel Core i5 chip, in PCMark 10.
This particular chip is designed to power the newest generation of devices called Always-Connected PCs that run Windows 10 ARM.
However, these devices are not selling well, mainly because there are not many cheap and promising options available to users. In addition, they present various compatibility issues, which may degrade the overall experience.
But what's the problem with Snapdragon laptops?
Initially, most apps for Windows 10 ARM devices are not natively supported, meaning they require an emulator. However, this is likely to change in the future, allowing developers to create native apps.
Their high price tag is also a concern for consumers, as Snapdragon laptops are still generally not considered as powerful as their Intel and AMD counterparts. The company is working feverishly to compete with Intel's dominance in the market, however, and is expected to soon create low-cost chips for Windows 10 ARM and Chrome OS.
According to VP of Global Product Marketing, Don McGuire, the new Snapdragon chips will power laptops that sell for between $300 and $800, which will be slightly below the 8cx.
Microsoft also appears to be working on bringing native versions of Office apps to Windows 10 ARM. According to McGuire on the Mobile Tech Podcast, the fact that Snapdragon laptops aren't in high demand is what has discouraged Google from bringing its own apps, like Chrome, to Windows ARM.
How are ARM Laptops different?
The Snapdragon 8cx was built from the ground up with a faster CPU and GPU to meet the needs of laptops. It's a bit different from the Snapdragon chips that power our smartphones. Snapdragon laptops could provide the portability and lighter weight that many people want from their computers. But there's one important difference that Qualcomm wants to achieve.
It wants to bring this kind of experience, where computers work just like our smartphones and create a balance between performance and energy efficiency. So for example, users will need to shut down their computers less often to save battery life.
