Google hardware enthusiasts may remember that prior to releasing its Pixel handsets, it used to collaborate with OEMs like LG and Huawei to release smartphones under the Nexus brand, designed to offer users a vanilla Android experience cultivated by Google. While Qualcomm is not quite in the same boat, it has announced its first self-branded smartphone, designed by Asus.
The device is being marketed as "Smartphone for Snapdragon Insiders" and is aimed at enthusiasts interested in Qualcomm technologies and adoption of 5G. Pertinent specifications of the handset include:
- OS: Android 11
- Processor: Snapdragon 888 5G, Octa-core CPU up to 2.84GHz
- GPU: Qualcomm Adreno 660
- RAM: 16GB
- Storage: 512GB
- Display: 6.78-inch, 2448x1080 resolution, 144Hz Samsung AMOLED, 1200 nits peak brightness
- Rear cameras: 64MP main, 12MP ultrawide, 8MP telephoto
- Front camera: 24MP
- Battery: 4,000mAh, support for Qualcomm Quick Charge 5.0
- Weight: 210g
Liliputing reports that the handset will cost $1,499 and will be available in August 2021. It is interesting to see that despite this launch time frame, the internals of the premium device include the Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 5G instead of the Snapdragon 888 Plus 5G that was just announced a couple of weeks ago.
Qualcomm has boasted that since the phone is designed for enthusiasts, it wants to ensure that you "have everything you need for the ultimate mobile experience". This means that the device will come bundled with "Premium Earbuds", a 65W charger which supports Quick Charge 5.0 technology, a custom rubber bumper, and "enhanced" braided Type-C to -C and -A cables. The company says that Snapdragon Insiders will be the first to be informed when the device becomes available. You can join this community here.