9to5Google
By Andrew Romero & Abner Li
December 1, 2021
In addition to the latest smartphone and laptop SoCs, Qualcomm has also announced something a little different: the 'Snapdragon G3x Gen 1'.
The Snapdragon G3x Gen 1 is different because it is built specifically for Android handheld gaming. In partnership with Razer, Qualcomm is debuting the chip on a new developer handheld gaming device.
The chip is purposed for "all Android games" as well as cloud-based titles such as those from Xbox Game Pass and Steam Remote Play, according to Qualcomm.
The chip houses an Adreno GPU that can support up to 4K and 144FPS with 10-bit HDR. This GPU is presumably updatable through Android's Google Play Store, meaning users would be able to keep drivers current. The chip's modem also supports WiFi 6 and 6E, mmWave, and sub-6 5G.
Razer's new handheld powerhouse
Made to house Qualcomm's new SoC, Razer has built a new handheld gaming device that features a 6.65-inch OLED display that runs at 120Hz, full HD+ resolution, and 10-bit HDR.
This on-the-go Android gaming device is also equipped with a 5MP/1080P60 webcam with two mics for streaming. While everything seems very akin to how the Nintendo Switch is structured, the USB-C placement is the main differentiation since it's located at the top of the device. This is preferable if the need to charge arises while gaming since it's a little more comfortable.
The whole system is built with ergonomics in mind as all the buttons and triggers look comfortable enough to hold for long periods at a time. Not only that, but advanced haptics from Lofelt, Snapdragon Sound-powered 4-way speakers, and a 6,000mAh battery may make you want to stay for more than a while.
Overall, Qualcomm's new Snapdragon G3x Gen 1 looks extremely promising, especially when paired with Razer's new mobile gaming system. Developers can grab the Snapdragon G3x Gen 1 Handheld Gaming Developer Kit from Razer's storefront.