Qualcomm's new Snapdragon chipset targets RAM crisis with Hexagon NPU and 5GHz CPU

The Hexagon NPU is central to the effort, using techniques to power larger-model-class AI experiences with low power consumption and memory requirements. According to TechRadar, this means phones can handle growing AI demands without needing massive amounts of RAM, and AI can remain responsive and private without frequent cloud communication. The NPU also includes an Element Accelerator and 50 percent more Large Shared Memory, keeping model state, context and KV-cache data closer to the accelerators to reduce trips to external memory.

Qualcomm also introduced a new FlexCache feature on the CPU, which reduces how often cores need to reach system memory, helping maintain peak performance even when memory is limited. The GPU, described as the largest generational leap for Qualcomm, promises major gains in graphics performance and power efficiency. It includes Adreno Matrix Cores, AI-dedicated GPU cores designed to run advanced AI models directly inside the graphics pipeline, as well as Adreno Neural Fusion, an AI-driven rendering technology that improves visuals while reducing power consumption.

The company has not confirmed which devices will use the unnamed chipset. TechRadar said at least some models in the Samsung Galaxy S27 series could ship with it early next year, while high-end Android handsets from Oppo, Xiaomi and Honor might get it sooner.