Emir BardakçıAccording to a new leak from the reliable tech insider @DigitalChatStation, Qualcomm is preparing to shake up its flagship lineup with a dual-chip strategy for the next generation. The leak reveals that the company is developing two distinct versions of its upcoming processor, identified by model numbers SM8950 and SM8975.
This marks a significant departure from Qualcomm’s traditional single-flagship approach, suggesting a split between a “Standard” and a “Pro” tier for the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 era.
The “Pro” Difference: SM8975 vs. SM8950
While both chips are built on TSMC’s cutting-edge N2p (2nm) process and feature the third-generation self-developed CPU architecture in a 2+3+3 cluster, the similarities end there. The leak highlights a massive gap in features and cost:
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SM8975 (The “Pro” Model): described as “extremely expensive,” this is the no-compromise beast. It is the only version to support next-gen LPDDR6 RAM, a fully unlocked GPU, and the full cache configuration.
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SM8950 (The “Standard” Model): likely a slightly cut-down version designed for broader adoption. It may lack LPDDR6 support and feature a scaled-back GPU or cache structure.
Mid-Range Flagships Get a Boost
Interestingly, DCS notes that mid-range or “sub-flagship” devices—which typically use the previous year’s chip (the N-1 strategy)—are now testing the SM8950.
This suggests that instead of using the older Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 (SM8850), affordable flagships might launch with the “Standard” Gen 6 chip, offering current-gen architecture at a lower price point.
Naming Speculation
While official names are yet to be confirmed, the industry expects the following naming scheme based on Qualcomm’s history:
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SM8950 ➔ Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6
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SM8975 ➔ Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro
With TSMC’s N2p process and a new 2+3+3 architecture, Qualcomm is clearly aiming to dominate the performance charts, but manufacturers may have to pay a steep price for the full “Pro” experience.
