The smartphone industry is facing strong cost pressure. Rapid growth in AI-focused hardware has pushed prices of key components like DRAM and NAND to record highs. As a result, smartphone brands are preparing for higher launch prices.
Recently, Nothing CEO Carl Pei warned that future smartphones may cost more than current models. Now, a fresh leak suggests that Qualcomm may also raise prices for its next flagship chipset. The upcoming processor, expected to launch as Snapdragon 8 Gen 6 Pro, could power premium phones and increase their retail prices.
Rising Chip Costs Could Impact Flagship Phones
According to the leak, Qualcomm’s next high-end processor may carry a significantly higher price tag. This move could directly affect flagship smartphones that use the chip.
Devices such as the Samsung Galaxy S27 Ultra may rely on this chipset. If so, manufacturers may pass the added cost on to consumers.
Snapdragon 8 Gen 6 Pro: Expected Specifications
Popular leaker Digital Chat Station shared new details on Weibo. He claimed that Qualcomm’s upcoming top-tier chip, internally called SM8975, will be “extremely expensive.”
Qualcomm may market this processor as the Snapdragon 8 Gen 6 Pro. Reports say the company will manufacture the chip using TSMC’s 2nm process. The standard Snapdragon 8 Gen 6 (SM8950) may also use the same node.
The Pro model could support LPDDR6 RAM, a fully powered GPU, and a complete cache setup. Meanwhile, many mid-range smartphones may use the standard Snapdragon 8 Gen 6 instead.
Performance and CPU Architecture Details
Earlier reports from November 2025 pointed to a Pro variant in the Snapdragon 8 Gen 6 lineup. This chip may introduce Qualcomm’s third-generation CPU architecture.
The processor could use a 2+3+3 core layout. This design aims to improve power efficiency and reduce heat. As a result, users may get stable performance during long usage sessions.
Standard vs Pro Variant Differences
The Snapdragon 8 Gen 6 Pro may launch with LPDDR6 memory support. In contrast, the standard Snapdragon 8 Gen 6 may stick to LPDDR5x RAM.
Qualcomm may also limit GPU power on the standard model. This step could help control manufacturing costs and keep prices lower for non-Pro devices.
Smartphones Likely to Use the Chipset
Leaks suggest that the Redmi K100 Pro Max may run on the Snapdragon 8 Gen 6. On the other hand, Samsung may launch the Galaxy S27 Ultra next year with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 6 Pro.
As component prices continue to rise, premium silicon is becoming more expensive. Because of this, industry experts expect flagship smartphone prices to increase again in 2027.