Qualcomm is set to continue its dual-processor strategy in 2026, but the upcoming Snapdragon Gen 6 Pro cost is raising concerns among manufacturers. This next-generation flagship processor promises groundbreaking performance, but its high price tag means it might only appear in the most expensive, ultra-premium smartphones.
High Snapdragon Gen 6 Pro Cost Explained
According to reports from industry insiders, the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro is expected to be the first chipset manufactured using TSMC’s cutting-edge 2nm production process. While this technology offers significant performance gains, it comes at a steep price. It’s estimated that the cost of a single silicon wafer for this new lithography process could reach as high as $30,000.
Consequently, this surge in manufacturing expenses could push the processor’s unit price above $300. Considering that even the previous generation of chips, priced around $280, created cost pressures for many brands, the new Pro version’s price could make it inaccessible for a wide range of flagship devices.
Standard Version: The More Popular Choice?
In contrast to the Pro model, the standard Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 variant is expected to maintain a more stable price point. This will likely push many smartphone manufacturers to opt for the standard version for their flagship models. However, this affordability will come with some trade-offs.
Rumors suggest the standard version may lack support for LPDDR6 RAM and could offer more modest graphics performance compared to the Pro model. Nevertheless, for brands looking to keep costs under control, this processor will be a valuable alternative.
Tough Choices Amid a Memory Crisis
Processor prices are not the only factor impacting the industry. An ongoing memory crisis is expected to increase DRAM prices, which could raise the material cost of phones by as much as 25%. To compensate for rising RAM and storage costs, manufacturers choosing the more economical standard Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 seems to be the most logical scenario. Therefore, we should not be surprised if the vast majority of flagship phones released in 2026 feature the standard version instead of the Pro.
So, what are your thoughts on the rising smartphone chip prices? Share your opinions with us in the comments!
