A few months ago, it was reported that Qualcomm has a handheld console similar to the Nintendo Switch in development. The source mentioned key details including its design and specs, one of which is support for 5G via a Snapdragon X55 modem. Now, new info has surfaced that says the device won’t have a modem.

According to Roland Quandt of Winfuture.de, the Qualcomm handheld console will not have a 4G or 5G modem as it uses the APQ8350 (Application Processor) chipset and not the SM8350 (Snapdragon 888 Mobile Platform).

Remember the Qualcomm "Switch Style" console @MishaalRahman from @xdadevelopers and @AndroidPolice were talking about a little while back? It doesn't have 4G/5G modem. Based on APQ8350, not SM8350.

— Roland Quandt (@rquandt) May 27, 2021

The APQ8350 should have a similar architecture to the SM8350 save for a modem, though it will have a Wi-Fi module for connectivity.

We do not know if this has always been the case from the onset or Qualcomm changed its mind and decided to not include a modem. There is also a possibility that Qualcomm may be testing two versions of these devices which means the earlier report may not be incorrect but another version of the same device with a modem.

While having a modem will be a good thing, we can’t rule out that mobile connection will surely have a significant effect on battery life. The Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch Lite both connect via Wi-Fi and manage to have a battery life of between 4.5 to 9 hours and 3 to 7 hours respectively depending on usage. If Qualcomm’s focus is on its device having longer battery life, then it is understandable as to why it is not putting a modem in the device.

So far, we know the Qualcomm gaming console will have detachable controllers, a 6000mAh battery with support for Quick Charge, a USB-C port, and support for display output. It will run Android 12 out of the box and also have the Epic Game Store pre-installed.

Considering that the device is not expected to launch until next year, there is a chance that some of these features may change as development goes on. Nevertheless, we are eager to see what Qualcomm has in store for mobile gamers.

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A new report has revealed that Qualcomm is making a game console that will run Android and have a design similar to the Nintendo Switch.

According to Android Police, they had a look at images of a prototype of the device which is expected to launch in 2022. The photos reveal a device that is inspired by the Nintendo Switch.

The Qualcomm device is said to have detachable controllers on each side. These controllers are said to be designed and manufactured by a big name in the controller industry but there is no hint as to who it is.

The console itself is liked a beefed-up smartphone – thickness or rather, thinness is not the goal here. It is stated that the extra thickness will allow the processor to function better and more efficiently than in smartphones where having the thinnest possible device is a competition between brands.

That extra space also allows for a large 6000mAh battery capacity which is significantly bigger than the Nintendo Switch’s own 4310mAh battery capacity. Qualcomm will also add support for Quick Charge fast charging, so you can get the device back to full charge in the shortest time possible and get back to playing.

A similar design to the Nintendo Switch is not the only feature Qualcomm’s gaming console borrows. It will also support display out, allowing it to be connected to an external display such as a monitor or TV. Unfortunately, we do not know if it will use the USB-C charging port for display output or if it will have a separate port for that function.

Qualcomm will ship the device with Android 12 and it will come with Google apps and services. It has also been reported that the device will have the yet-to-be-released Epic Games Store app in addition to Qualcomm’s own content platform. While there is no confirmation of a partnership with any of the game streaming platforms in existence, it will be wise if it does as that will provide a steady stream of content for owners.

The Qualcomm game console is expected to feature Qualcomm’s next-gen Snapdragon processor and it will have 5G thanks to the Snapdragon X55 modem. It will also have GPS, Bluetooth, accelerometers, and dual-zone haptics.

The source reports that Qualcomm is targeting a price tag of $300 but it is not known if it is for the full device, a 5G model, or maybe even a Wi-Fi-only version. The device is expected to be sold directly to consumers and also via network operators in the United States. It has also been revealed that Qualcomm hopes to inspire its partners to make similar devices.

Qualcomm declined to comment on the story, citing its policy of not commenting on rumors. We will advise you to not get your hopes high as even if it is true, we can’t rule out the possibility of the product getting canceled and not seeing the light of day.

What do you think of a Snapdragon-powered Android-running game console? Do let us know in the comment box.

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