Qualcomm announced the Snapdragon XR Gen 2 and AR1 Gen 1 platforms for next-generation virtual and mixed reality devices. The new chips will allow manufacturers to create thinner and lighter headsets and glasses that do not require external power. This provides a chance for many companies to grab a share of the market, which is expected to grow in popularity after the launch of Apple Vision Pro.
The most interesting of the two new products is the Snapdragon XR Gen 2. This chip supports MR and VR devices, its GPU performance is 2.5 times higher than its predecessor, and its neural processor is 8 times higher. It can handle up to 10 cameras and sensors, two 3K displays each, and supports the latest image processor and Wi-Fi 7.
The Snapdragon AR1 Gen 1 platform, on the other hand, is aimed at lightweight smart glasses with mixed reality capabilities. This chip allows recording and live broadcasting directly from the glasses, performing visual search and real-time translation.
Both platforms were developed in collaboration with Meta and will debut on its devices this year. For example, Quest 3 will run on the Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 platform, and Ray-Ban smart glasses will run on the Snapdragon AR1 Gen 1 platform. Other manufacturers will be able to develop their own devices based on these chips starting in 2024.