There is now a THIRD CPU Company. (Snapdragon X Explained)

Summary

The script discusses the emergence of Qualcomm's Snapdragon X processors as a significant contender in the laptop market, challenging Intel and AMD. Unlike previous ARM chips, the Snapdragon X boasts improved performance and power efficiency, potentially making Windows on ARM laptops more attractive. Qualcomm claims the X Elite outperforms Apple's M3, and with its focus on AI capabilities, it could appeal to creators and early adopters. However, compatibility and performance issues with native x86 apps remain a concern, suggesting a wait-and-see approach for potential buyers.

Takeaways

• 🤖 Windows on ARM has been limited by performance, but Qualcomm's Snapdragon X processors aim to change that by competing with Apple's M series.
• 🔋 ARM chips are known for their power efficiency, which is crucial for devices like smartphones, but has been a challenge for performance in laptops.
• 💪 Qualcomm claims the Snapdragon X Elite outperforms Apple's M3, signaling a push for better performance in the ARM-based Windows laptop market.
• 🏭 The Snapdragon X is built on a 4nm process and offers between 10 to 12 high-performance cores, similar to Apple's 3nm M3 Max.
• 🧠 Microsoft is focusing on the AI capabilities of Snapdragon X, with neural processing units capable of 45 trillion operations per second, to enhance AI features in Windows.
• 💻 Snapdragon X is the first to market with the required performance for Microsoft's Co-Pilot Plus AI-enabled Windows features.
• 🤝 Intel and AMD are not standing still, planning to release compatible CPUs later this year to stay competitive in the AI and ARM space.
• 🎨 Native ARM software versions are increasing, with Adobe releasing Photoshop and Lightroom for ARM, which could boost the appeal of Snapdragon X.
• 🕹️ There are promising gaming results with Snapdragon X, despite it not being marketed as a gaming chip, hinting at improved emulation performance.
• ⚠️ A caveat with Snapdragon X is the lack of unified hardware and software control compared to Apple, which could lead to potential compatibility issues.

Q & A

What is the significance of Qualcomm's Snapdragon X processors in the market?

The Snapdragon X processors are significant because they are ARM-based chips that are starting to compete with Intel and AMD processors in the PC market, offering improved power efficiency and performance, which could make Windows laptops more attractive to consumers.

How does the performance of Snapdragon X processors compare to Apple's M series?

Qualcomm claims that the Snapdragon X processors, specifically the Elite model, perform better than Apple's M3 chips, positioning them as a strong competitor in the market for high-performance ARM-based processors.

What is the primary advantage of ARM chips over traditional x86 architecture chips?

The primary advantage of ARM chips is their power efficiency, which is crucial for devices like smartphones where battery life is a key concern. This efficiency comes from a different architectural focus compared to the x86 architecture, which was introduced in 1978 with less emphasis on power consumption.

Why has Windows on ARM struggled to gain popularity despite the power efficiency of ARM chips?

Windows on ARM has struggled due to compatibility and performance issues. The x86 architecture has a larger software ecosystem, and ARM chips have historically faced challenges in emulating native x86 applications, leading to performance penalties.

How does the Snapdragon X lineup differ from previous ARM laptop chips?

The Snapdragon X lineup is built on a 4nm process and offers between 10 to 12 high-performance cores, which is a significant leap from previous ARM laptop chips that were often underpowered. This advancement aims to reduce the performance gap with x86 chips.

What is the role of neural processing units (NPUs) in the Snapdragon X processors?

The Snapdragon X processors include NPUs that can deliver 45 trillion operations per second (TOPS), which is crucial for Microsoft's AI-enabled Windows features. This aligns with Microsoft's 'Co-Pilot Plus' initiative, which requires NPUs capable of at least 40 TOPS.

How are Intel and AMD responding to the competition from ARM-based processors like Snapdragon X?

Intel and AMD are looking to release compatible CPUs later in the year to catch up with the advancements in ARM-based processors, indicating that they are actively trying to maintain their market position.

What is the potential impact of native ARM software versions on the adoption of Snapdragon X chips?

The development of native ARM versions of software, such as Adobe's Photoshop and Lightroom, could boost the appeal of Snapdragon X chips by reducing the reliance on emulation and improving performance for creative professionals.

What are the gaming performance expectations for laptops with Snapdragon X processors?

While the Snapdragon X isn't primarily marketed as a gaming chip, early reviews suggest there have been some impressive gaming results, indicating that the performance of non-ARM native programs might be better than expected.

Why might consumers be advised to wait before purchasing a new laptop with a Snapdragon X processor?

Consumers might be advised to wait for independent reviews and real-world testing because, unlike Apple's control over both hardware and software, Windows laptops with Snapdragon X processors may face potential compatibility issues due to the separation of hardware and software development.

Outlines

00:00

💻 Snapdragon X: The Future of Windows on ARM?

The paragraph introduces the concept of a Windows PC powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon X processor, which traditionally hasn't been a common choice due to performance limitations. It contrasts this with the recent trend of Apple's M-series chips, which have shown significant performance improvements. Qualcomm is positioning the Snapdragon X as a competitor to Apple's M3 chip, with claims of superior performance. The discussion highlights the historical challenges of Windows on ARM due to compatibility and performance issues, which have been barriers to widespread adoption. The paragraph also touches on the potential benefits of ARM architecture, such as power efficiency, which is critical for battery life in mobile devices. The Snapdragon X's 4nm process and high-performance cores are mentioned as key factors in its potential to change the landscape of Windows laptops, making them more competitive with Apple's offerings.

05:00

🤖 Snapdragon X and the AI Advantage

This paragraph delves into Microsoft's strategy to leverage the Snapdragon X processor to gain an edge in the AI space. It mentions that Qualcomm has integrated neural processing units (NPUs) into its chips, which are capable of performing 45 trillion operations per second, surpassing the requirements for Microsoft's AI-enabled Windows features. The paragraph also discusses the 'co-pilot plus' lineup of PCs that Microsoft is introducing, which are designed to take advantage of these AI capabilities. While acknowledging that Intel and AMD are not standing still and are also working on compatible CPUs, the paragraph suggests that the Snapdragon X could be the first to market with the necessary performance for AI applications. It also notes the mixed sentiment around AI technology and the lack of a 'killer app' that would drive widespread demand for Snapdragon X laptops. However, the paragraph concludes by suggesting that the improved hardware could make emulation of native x86 applications less of an issue, and that native ARM versions of software, such as Adobe's Photoshop and Lightroom, could enhance the appeal of Snapdragon X as a genuine competitor to Apple's silicon.

Keywords

💡Snapdragon X

Snapdragon X refers to a series of processors from Qualcomm that are designed to compete with traditional Intel and AMD processors in the PC market. The video discusses how these processors are starting to challenge the performance of Apple's M series, indicating a shift in the laptop chip industry. Qualcomm claims that the Snapdragon X Elite outperforms Apple's M3, suggesting a significant advancement in performance for ARM-based chips traditionally used in mobile devices.

💡ARM architecture

ARM architecture is a reduced instruction set computer (RISC) architecture that is known for its power efficiency, making it ideal for mobile devices and now, increasingly, for laptops. The video script mentions that ARM chips are more power-efficient than x86 architecture, which is traditionally used in PCs. This efficiency is a key advantage for ARM chips in battery-powered devices, although it has historically faced challenges in terms of compatibility and performance on Windows platforms.

💡x86 architecture

x86 architecture is a type of instruction set architecture used in most personal computers. It was introduced in 1978 and is known for its performance but less so for power efficiency. The video contrasts x86 with ARM, highlighting that while x86 is powerful, it consumes more power, which is a disadvantage in devices where battery life is critical.

💡Windows on ARM

Windows on ARM refers to the version of the Windows operating system that is designed to run on ARM-based processors. The video discusses the historical performance limitations of Windows on ARM, suggesting that it has not been a compelling option due to compatibility and performance issues. However, with the advent of the Snapdragon X processors, there is a renewed interest in ARM-based Windows laptops.

💡Apple M series

Apple's M series refers to the line of system on a chip (SoC) designs developed by Apple Inc. for use in their Mac computers. The video compares the performance of Qualcomm's Snapdragon X processors to Apple's M series, particularly the M3, indicating a competitive landscape in the market for laptop processors.

💡Neural Processing Units (NPUs)

Neural Processing Units (NPUs) are specialized hardware components designed to accelerate machine learning tasks. The video highlights that Qualcomm has integrated NPUs into the Snapdragon X lineup, capable of delivering 45 trillion operations per second (TOPS), which is significant for AI-driven features in Windows.

💡AI-driven features

AI-driven features refer to functionalities within software or systems that are powered by artificial intelligence. The video mentions Microsoft's efforts to integrate AI capabilities into Windows, such as the 'co-pilot plus' lineup of PCs, which require NPUs to deliver at least 40 TOPS. This indicates a growing emphasis on AI capabilities in modern computing devices.

💡Emulation

Emulation in the context of the video refers to the process of running software designed for one system (like x86) on a different system architecture (like ARM). The video discusses the performance penalty associated with emulating native x86 applications on ARM-based Windows laptops, suggesting that while it's not ideal, the more powerful hardware like Snapdragon X may mitigate some of these issues.

💡Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom on ARM

The video mentions that Adobe has released ARM versions of popular creative software like Photoshop and Lightroom, which are significant for the ARM ecosystem. These native ARM applications can potentially boost the appeal of ARM-based chips like Snapdragon X, as they provide more software options for users, especially those in creative fields.

💡Compatibility

Compatibility in this context refers to the ability of a system to work with different types of software and hardware without issues. The video script discusses how compatibility has been a challenge for Windows on ARM, as many applications are designed for x86 architecture. Improved compatibility is crucial for the success of ARM-based Windows laptops.

Highlights

Snapdragon X processors from Qualcomm are challenging traditional Intel and AMD processors in the PC market.

Windows on ARM has been limited by performance, but Snapdragon X aims to change that.

Qualcomm claims the Snapdragon X Elite outperforms Apple's M3 chip.

ARM chips are known for their power efficiency, which is crucial for battery life in mobile devices.

The Snapdragon X lineup is built on a 4nm process and features high-performance cores.

Snapdragon X is the first to market with a neural processing unit capable of 45 trillion operations per second.

Microsoft's 'Co-Pilot Plus' PCs require NPUs that can deliver at least 40 TOPS, which Snapdragon X can provide.

Snapdragon X represents a significant leap forward in ARM laptop chips compared to previous generations.

Adobe has released native ARM versions of Photoshop and Lightroom, potentially boosting the appeal of Snapdragon X.

Gaming results on Snapdragon X have been impressive, despite it not being marketed as a gaming chip.

Emulation performance of non-ARM programs on Snapdragon X might be surprisingly good.

Unlike Apple, Snapdragon X faces challenges due to the lack of a unified hardware and software stack.

It's recommended to wait for independent reviews before purchasing a Snapdragon X laptop.

The overall sentiment around AI-driven tech is mixed, and there's no clear 'killer app' for Snapdragon X yet.

Intel and AMD are working on releasing compatible CPUs to compete with ARM-based chips like Snapdragon X.

The push for ARM in PCs is leading to more native ARM software development, improving the ecosystem.

Transcripts

imagine this if you will a PC that

doesn't have an Intel or an AMD

processor but is actually pretty

good just imagine it although windows on

arm has been around for a while the

performance just hasn't been good enough

for it to be an attractive option but

now we're seeing the Snapdragon X

processors from Qualcomm starting to hit

the market going head-to-head with

Apple's M series Qualcomm is even

claiming the Snapdragon X Elite soundly

beats Apple's M3 so can this chip make

Windows laptops a compelling buy for

folks that might be otherwise

considering a Mac and why do we even

need an arm chip for Windows anyway well

one of the biggest advantages of arm is

that arm chips tend to be more power

efficient than those using the long

serving x86 architecture which is a big

part of the reason you see it used so

often in phones where battery life is a

key concern this isn't universally true

as it's certainly possible to have arm

chips that use lots of power like in

some supercomputers but keep in mind

that x86 was introduced way back in 1978

as a desktop platform where power

consumption wasn't nearly as big of an

issue but using a different architecture

that focuses on efficiency means that

compatibility and performance can suffer

and those are indeed big reasons why

windows on arm has struggled to gain

popularity in the marketplace so how is

snapdragon X different well similar to

when Apple first unveiled its M series

Apple silicon to the world Qualcomm is

hammering home the point that testing

shows it's faster than Intel's laptop

chips specifically faster than their

current core Ultra 7 offering combined

with their performance comparisons to

the Apple M3 it's a pretty clear signal

that Qualcomm and Microsoft aren't

content to let Apple run away with the

performance Crown the snap dragon X

lineup is built on a 4 nmet process and

has between 10 and 12 high performance

depending on the model similarly to the

Apple M3 Max which is built on a 3

nanometer process despite these

similarities there's one specific area

where Microsoft is hoping Snapdragon X

will clearly beat apple and we'll tell

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clicking the link below come on it won't

come as a surprise to many of you that

Microsoft is leaning on Snapdragon X to

give it a big advantage in the AI space

Qualcomm already has experience building

neural processing units or npus into its

previous chips and the Snapdragon X

lineup has npus that can deliver 45

trillion operations per second or tops

Microsoft's effort to get AI enabled

Windows features into everyone's hot

little hands is currently taking the

form of a lineup of PCS the company is

calling co-pilot plus which require npus

that can deliver at least 40 tops and

Snapdragon X is technically the first to

Market with that level of performance

even when when you include Apple silicon

of course this doesn't mean that Intel

and AMD aren't trying to play catchup

with both companies looking to release

compatible CPUs later this year and it

also doesn't mean that everyone will

necessarily Embrace AI features the

overall sentiment around Aid driven Tech

right now is relatively mixed and there

doesn't yet appear to be a killer app

that would compel people to run to their

local Best Buy in drobes for a

Snapdragon X laptop to run it but even

if AI isn't your or bag it does appear

that Snapdragon X represents a pretty

significant Leap Forward compared to the

underpowered arm laptop chips of yesty

year although emulating native x86 app

still comes with a performance penalty

just as it does on Apple the more

powerful Hardware should make emulation

less of a pain although early reviews

suggest it still struggles in some

applications but the more exciting news

on this front is that with this big push

for arm we're seeing more native arm

versions of software being developed

notably Adobe has released popular

programs for creatives like Photoshop

and Lightroom on arm which could end up

boosting the appeal of a chip like the

Snapdragon X as a true competitor to

Apple silicon as MacBooks have been

targeted at creators for quite a long

time there have even been some

impressive gaming results According to

some reviewers even though the

Snapdragon X isn't really being marketed

as a gaming chip for us the bigger

implication here is that emulation

performance of non-armed programs might

end up being a pleasant surprise even

shortly after launch however one very

important caveat is that unlike Apple

silicon there isn't one company

controlling the whole hardware and

software stack meaning hiccups may be

more likely so while we're excited about

what Snapdragon X can do I wouldn't

necessarily run out to be one of the

first people to buy one of these new

laptops when they hit store shelves this

month instead maybe I'd wait a bit and

see what independent reviewers have to

say and yes that is a Shameless plug for

our other channels something else I feel

no shame about is how thankful I am to

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