At the bustling CES 2026, Qualcomm has once again captured the spotlight by introducing its new Snapdragon X2 Plus processor. Following the launch of its flagship X2 Elite, this new chip is designed to bring powerful AI and efficiency to a wider range of laptops. This move signals Qualcomm’s strong intention to accelerate the adoption of ARM architecture within the Windows ecosystem.
The Snapdragon X2 Plus Processor Shines with AI Performance
This new chipset is specifically engineered to be the heart of the next generation of Windows 11 Copilot+ PCs. Its most remarkable feature is the integrated Hexagon NPU (Neural Processing Unit), which delivers an impressive 80 TOPS of performance for AI tasks, setting a new benchmark for competitors. Furthermore, the processor is built on the third-generation Qualcomm Oryon architecture and will be available in two variations: six-core and ten-core models. This makes it a more accessible yet powerful alternative to the 12 and 18-core configurations of the Elite model, striking a perfect balance between price and performance.
Significant Performance Boost Over Previous Generation
Qualcomm’s engineers have focused on boosting efficiency without compromising on power. According to the official data, the new processor promises a 35% increase in single-core performance compared to its predecessor. On the multi-core front, the six-core model sees a 10% improvement, while the ten-core version gets a 17% boost. Additionally, the integrated Adreno GPU offers 29% higher graphics performance, which will significantly enhance gaming and multimedia experiences.
With this launch, Qualcomm aims to popularize ARM architecture not just in the high-end segment but also in mid-range laptops. The Snapdragon X2 Plus, with its strong emphasis on battery life and AI capabilities, strengthens Qualcomm’s position in the fierce competition against Intel and AMD. As a result, users can look forward to thinner, lighter devices with longer battery life and exceptional AI performance.
So, what are your thoughts on the new Qualcomm processor? Share your opinions with us in the comments!
