What performance improvements does Snapdragon Reality Elite offer?

The platform delivers up to 60% GPU performance boost, 30% CPU improvement, and 160% NPU enhancement. It supports 4.4K resolution per eye at 90 fps and runs language models with 3 billion parameters at 45 tokens/sec.

Which devices is START designed for?

START accelerates the development of smart glasses and other AI wearables. It includes three ready-made designs: audio+camera (similar to Ray-Ban Meta*), monocular, and binocular displays.

Why is Qualcomm focusing on wearable devices?

The company believes the future lies in always-on devices that analyze the environment and interact with AI agents. This shift creates opportunities for startups and reduces reliance on traditional smartphones.

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Hardware

Qualcomm Unveils Chips for Devices That Will Replace Smartphones

June 17, 2026

Photo: TechCrunch

Quick answer

Qualcomm launched Snapdragon Reality Elite and START platforms for AI-powered wearables, including mixed reality glasses.

Qualcomm is preparing for the post-smartphone era. At its recent presentation, the company unveiled two key platforms: Snapdragon Reality Elite for mixed reality glasses and the Scalable Turnkey AI-Ready Toolkit (START), designed to accelerate AI device development. These solutions will serve as the foundation for the next generation of wearables, including smart glasses, clip-on cameras, and even AI-powered jewelry.

Snapdragon Reality Elite promises significant performance gains: up to 60% in GPU, 30% in CPU, and 160% in the neural processing unit (NPU). The platform supports 4.4K resolution per eye at 90 fps, enhancing image quality and reducing discomfort during extended use. A standout feature is its ability to run language models with 3 billion parameters at 45 tokens per second, ensuring rapid AI system responses.

The START platform includes hardware modules, a software stack, and three ready-made designs for smart glasses: audio+camera (similar to Ray-Ban Meta*), monocular, and binocular displays. The white-label program enables manufacturers to bring products to market faster. Early partners include Inspecs and O’Neill (TitanFlex brand). Future versions of START will support additional device form factors.

Qualcomm CEO Cristiano Amon emphasized that the company envisions a future where devices are always with the user, capable of analyzing the surroundings and interacting with AI agents. He noted that over 40 projects are already underway, including unconventional solutions like camera-equipped headphones and smart jewelry. This shift opens new opportunities for startups and reduces dependence on traditional smartphones.

* Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and other Meta services are owned by Meta Platforms Inc., an entity recognized as extremist and banned in the Russian Federation.

Common questions

What new products did Qualcomm announce?: Qualcomm unveiled two platforms: Snapdragon Reality Elite for mixed reality glasses and the Scalable Turnkey AI-Ready Toolkit (START), a development toolkit for AI devices including smart glasses.
What performance improvements does Snapdragon Reality Elite offer?: The platform delivers up to 60% GPU performance boost, 30% CPU improvement, and 160% NPU enhancement. It supports 4.4K resolution per eye at 90 fps and runs language models with 3 billion parameters at 45 tokens/sec.
Which devices is START designed for?: START accelerates the development of smart glasses and other AI wearables. It includes three ready-made designs: audio+camera (similar to Ray-Ban Meta*), monocular, and binocular displays.
Why is Qualcomm focusing on wearable devices?: The company believes the future lies in always-on devices that analyze the environment and interact with AI agents. This shift creates opportunities for startups and reduces reliance on traditional smartphones.

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