Qualcomm’s recently launched Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset brings substantial performance boosts to Android devices, but not every phone with this chipset will support ultra-wideband (UWB) connectivity. Although the FastConnect 7900 platform within the Snapdragon 8 Elite allows for UWB support alongside Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, according to Qualcomm, it’s up to the OEM to determine if they want to utilize the feature.
Understanding UWB and its benefits
UWB technology is a short-range wireless communication protocol that offers super-precise location tracking, enabling features like using your phone as a digital car key and connecting with nearby devices for smooth casting. Apple’s AirTags use UWB to enable accurate location tracking, and Google’s Find My Device network is expected to incorporate UWB, which could help Android-based item trackers close the gap with Apple’s ecosystem.
UWB support is limited despite FastConnect 7900
The FastConnect 7900, which Qualcomm introduced as a single-chip solution for Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and UWB, was expected to streamline UWB support across all Snapdragon 8 Elite devices. However, as confirmed by Qualcomm, the decision to enable UWB still lies with the device manufacturers, and many OEMs are choosing to forgo it.
While Qualcomm stated that the FastConnect 7900 does not require additional hardware for UWB, adding UWB capabilities requires regional regulatory compliance and testing, adding complexity and cost. Realme, for instance, stated that UWB’s limited real-world use cases influenced its decision not to include it with the GT7 Pro.
Beyond connectivity, the 8 Elite chip offers major advancements in processing power. It features an all-big-core architecture, powered by Qualcomm’s new Oryon cores, including two high-performance cores clocked at 4.32 GHz, supported by an enhanced Adreno GPU that improves gaming performance by up to 40%.
The AI Engine powers the chip’s Image Signal Processor (ISP), which can manage up to 4.3 gigapixels per second, enabling high-quality photos and videos even in demanding scenarios. These enhancements position Snapdragon 8 Elite devices to rival MediaTek’s Dimensity 9400 chip in high-end Android markets.
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