Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 Brings Flagship AI and Gaming Features to Mid-Range Phones

Quick Summary

Qualcomm launches Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 with on-device generative AI and performance boost

CPU is 27% faster, GPU sees 30% improvement, AI performance up by 65%

Vivo, Realme, and Honor set to launch devices with the chip by May 2025

Qualcomm has introduced the Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 Mobile Platform, a significant update to its mid-range chipset line. Aimed at delivering flagship-like performance to budget-friendly devices, the new platform includes advanced AI, faster processing, and upgraded gaming and audio features.

What’s New in Snapdragon 7 Gen 4

The Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 is Qualcomm’s first 7-series chip to support on-device generative AI, a feature previously limited to premium processors. The platform is designed to handle tasks such as real-time language translation, image editing, and voice interaction without sending data to the cloud.

According to Qualcomm, this allows for more privacy-focused and responsive AI performance. Users can access features like summarization, background blur in video calls, and voice command responses even when offline.

Performance Improvements Over Previous Generation

The Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 offers notable gains across several areas:

CPU performance is up by 27%, improving app response time and multitasking.

GPU performance is 30% faster, which supports smoother gameplay and improved visual effects.

AI engine performance has increased by 65%, enabling faster on-device processing for AI tasks.

These improvements mean better performance in day-to-day activities, from gaming and video calls to camera enhancements and smart assistant functions.

Elite Gaming and Audio Support Added

For the first time in the 7-series, Qualcomm has integrated Snapdragon Elite Gaming features into the platform. This addition helps reduce input lag, improve frame rates, and manage heat more efficiently during extended gaming sessions.

The chip also supports Snapdragon Sound, Qualcomm’s suite of high-quality audio technologies. Users can expect lower latency in wireless audio, better synchronization during media playback, and support for lossless music formats.

Introduction of XPAN Connectivity

Another first for the 7-series is the inclusion of Expanded Personal Area Network (XPAN) support. XPAN allows devices to communicate over short distances without relying heavily on Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.

This feature can benefit wearable devices, wireless earbuds, and future AR gear by improving stability and reducing latency in direct device-to-device communication.

Upcoming Devices Featuring Snapdragon 7 Gen 4

Smartphone brands Vivo, Realme, and Honor are expected to be among the first to release devices powered by the Snapdragon 7 Gen 4. These phones are slated to arrive by May 2025, bringing next-gen AI and gaming capabilities to consumers at more affordable prices.

Chris Patrick, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Mobile Handsets at Qualcomm, said the platform “helps bring flagship-like AI and multimedia capabilities to broader price segments.”

Comparison: Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 vs. Snapdragon 7 Gen 3

Feature Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 Snapdragon 7 Gen 4

CPU Octa-core Kryo Improved Kryo, 27% faster

GPU Adreno (standard) Adreno, 30% better rendering

AI Basic engine Generative AI, 65% faster

Audio Basic DSP Snapdragon Sound

Gaming No Elite Gaming Elite Gaming enabled

XPAN Not supported Supported

Background: Evolution of Qualcomm’s Mid-Range Chips

The Snapdragon 7 series was created to balance affordability with advanced mobile experiences. Previous versions focused on improved battery life and moderate performance upgrades, but often lacked high-end features like on-device AI or top-tier graphics.

With the Gen 4 upgrade, Qualcomm is positioning the 7-series as a serious contender in the mid-range market. It signals a shift in the company’s strategy to bring premium features to more users, without increasing device cost significantly.

Expert Opinion

Industry analysts see this launch as a response to the growing demand for AI-capable smartphones outside the flagship segment.

“Qualcomm is narrowing the gap between mid-range and premium phones,” said Kavita Iyer, an independent tech analyst. “On-device AI and elite gaming tools are now within reach for users who don’t want to spend ₹50,000 or more.”

What This Means for Buyers

Consumers can expect smartphones priced between ₹20,000 and ₹30,000 to deliver faster app usage, enhanced mobile photography, and smarter assistants—comparable to what flagship users currently enjoy.

This could influence upgrade decisions for users planning to switch devices in 2025, especially those who prioritize AI features or mobile gaming.

Disclaimer

At the time of writing, devices using the Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 are not yet commercially available. Details shared are based on Qualcomm’s official launch and may be subject to change upon final device release.

📌 Key Takeaways

Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 introduces high-end AI and gaming to mid-range phones

Devices from Vivo, Realme, and Honor expected by May 2025

Platform includes on-device generative AI, XPAN, and Elite Gaming features