Qualcomm announces Snapdragon Reality Elite as its next-gen XR platform

Qualcomm has announced Snapdragon Reality Elite as its next-gen XR platform to redefine what's possible in spatial computing, as it's designed to power immersive spatial computing experiences and deliver advanced on-device AI performance.

The Snapdragon Reality Elite will power high-performance all‑in‑one video-see-through (VST) headsets and lightweight tethered optical-see-through (OST) devices. It also brings powerful generative AI capabilities to devices, as it features up to 48 TOPS of AI processing to support advanced AI models, including large language models (LLMs) and large vision models (LVMs), which deliver more personalized, natural, and responsive spatial computing.

The Snapdragon Reality Elite also supports simultaneous display, input, and charging across connected devices. Besides, the XR platform is optimized for lower power consumption. Qualcomm states it delivers up to 20% longer battery life at the same workload and keeps the device up to 12°C cooler under load compared to the Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2. These power optimizations are achieved across CPU, GPU, and NPU, enabling longer sessions and a more comfortable, immersive experience with the devices.

Speaking of, Qualcomm says the Snapdragon Reality Elite delivers up to 30% higher CPU performance, 60% higher GPU performance, and 160% higher NPU performance compared to the Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2. It also supports 4.4K per eye at 90 FPS for sharper details, improved color fidelity, and smoother motion.

Furthermore, enhancements to VST reduce latency and improve image quality, helping digital content blend more naturally with the physical world. This is achieved through IP hardening, including the EVA block, which provides hardware acceleration to process demanding computer vision workloads.

You can check the image below for full specs and features of the Snapdragon Reality Elite.

Snapdragon Reality Elite will power the XREAL Project Aura first, which is launching later this year. You will also find it inside Play for Dream's next-gen immersive devices.

“XR adoption continues to expand, with more than 60 million devices already in market and growing momentum across industries,” said Ziad Asghar, Senior Vice President and General Manager of XR, Wearables and Personal AI, Qualcomm.

“As more advanced and integrated XR platforms are developed, demand is increasing for XR technologies that deliver higher performance, greater intelligence, and improved power efficiency. Snapdragon Reality Elite is designed to meet those demands with powerful on‑device AI, enabling faster, longer‑lasting, and more immersive experiences, and reinforcing our leadership in VR and MR as we build purpose‑built XR chipsets from the ground up,” Asghar further added.

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