Snapdragon X2 Elite might just be the 18-core beast Windows on ARM’s been waiting for

If you’ve been following Microsoft’s Windows on ARM journey, you’d know that the Snapdragon X Elite was a significant milestone. Launched with 12 custom Oryon CPU cores, integrated graphics that could actually compete, and a bunch of connectivity and AI perks, it finally gave Windows on ARM devices a real shot at the mainstream. Now, its successor might be getting ready to take that promise even further.

Snapdragon X2 Elite: Headed in the right direction?

According to trusted tipster Roland Quandt’s post on BlueSky Social, the unannounced chip, believed to be the Snapdragon X2 Elite, is currently undergoing internal testing. And this time, Qualcomm seems to be going big. Early leaks suggest the chip could pack as many as 18 CPU cores and be tested with up to 64GB of RAM.

Of course, this massive RAM setup is likely reserved for premium SKUs, but it still hints at the kind of performance Qualcomm is aiming for.

Another interesting detail is that the upcoming chip is expected to feature a System-in-Package (SiP) design, which means RAM and storage could be integrated directly onto the chip package. The upside here is faster data access and potentially better thermal efficiency. The downside? Not much room for modular upgrades. So, more performance at the cost of flexibility.

ALSO READ: Best Snapdragon X Elite laptops you should check out

In parallel, the Snapdragon X2 Plus is also expected as a follow-up to the existing X Plus variant. Qualcomm has already confirmed that its annual Snapdragon Summit will take place on September 23 in Hawaii.

While the spotlight will be on the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4, now rebranded as Snapdragon 8 Elite 2, we’re also anticipating teasers or previews of these next-gen PC chips. Whether the X2 Elite or X2 Plus gets a formal unveiling remains to be seen, but the pieces are definitely moving.