Qualcomm Intros Snapdragon 690, Its First Non-Flagship 5G Chip

Qualcomm has announced its very first 5G system-on-a-chip that does not belong to the flagship category of products. This new arrival, unveiled earlier today in the company’s hometown of San Diego, California, promises to pair the next generation of wireless connectivity with some rather value-focused hardware, one that is ripe for mass production and benefitting from the principles of the economies of scale.

It hasn’t been long since Qualcomm introduced its first 5G chip, which happened just last year. Though the company has been making 5G modems for much longer – since late 2016, to be exact. But actually implementing those into SoCs fit for consumer goods is another matter, entirely. Which is why not everyone expected Qualcomm would be so quick to follow up on its flagship 5G chip offering with a mid-range alternative.

After all, it is not like there is much competition in the segment at the moment and the company invested countless sums into 5G R&D. Which is why it would not have been strange to see Qualcomm trying to maximize profits for the time being. But today’s announcement of the Snapdragon 690 signals a different strategy, one that wants to get everyone hooked up to 5G networks as quickly as possible, no matter how much they are willing to spend on their next smartphone.

More From RunAroundTech.com

Comments

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here

DON'T MISS

GR Yaris “Aero performance package” Set for Japan Launch

TOYOTA GAZOO Racing (TGR) announced today that it intends to launch the GR Yaris "Aero performance package", which incorporates insights gained from motorsports, at Toyota vehicle dealers across Japan on October 1, 2025.

The New Technology Powering Modern Freeze Dryer Machines

Discover how the new technology powering modern freeze dryer machines revolutionizes preservation with smarter, faster, and more efficient methods.

MORE FROM RUNAROUNDTECH.COM

Lexus world premieres the new IS

Lexus world premiered the new IS on Tuesday, September 9. The new model will go on sale in various markets starting in early 2026.

How Technology Is Shaping the Agricultural Industry

Discover how modern technology is transforming farming practices, from precision agriculture to automated systems, aiding crop management and production.