Qualcomm makes the chips found in practically every Android phone, but it seems the company is stepping away from its usual role. With some help from Asus, Qualcomm is announcing its first smartphone.
Officially called the smartphone for Snapdragon users (which really rolls off the tongue by the way), the insanely priced smartphone is actually less of an iPhone or Galaxy rival and more of a showcase for Qualcomm’s tech prowess to its social media audience.
That said, Qualcomm will only sell the phone to its Insider Fan community launched earlier this year, made up of around 1.6 million people, as a way of showing appreciation.
It’s an interesting idea, but unfortunately, it doesn’t look like it does anything different, when it comes to taking advantage of Qualcomm’s technology than any other Android flagship, which is particularly disappointing given the price tag.
On paper, the specs include what you’d expect on a flagship Android phone in 2021. The Smartphone for Snapdragon Insiders runs Android 11, 16GB RAM, 512GB storage, 6.78-inch AMOLED display with 144Hz refresh rate, and naturally Qualcomm’s super chipset, the Snapdragon 888.
The device comes with a triple camera setup including a 64MP main cam, a 12MP ultra-wide lens, and an 8MP telephoto lens. Plus, a 4000mAh battery keeps the lights on and maxes out at 65W fast charging.
To help sweeten the deal or soothe your wallet after purchase, Qualcomm throws a handful of extras in the package including a braided USB-C cable, a custom rubber bumper, and Qualcomm’s quick charge 5 power brick.
The Smartphone for Snapdragon Insiders will be available this August in the US, China, UK, and Germany to start, with launches for more regions in the works.
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Alfred Gitonga is a passionate tech news writer with a deep interest in smartphones and related technologies. He is a staff writer at Mobitrends.co.ke.
