In a surprising turn of events, a prototype unit of the Samsung Galaxy Watch8 Classic has surfaced on eBay, providing what appears to be the first real-world confirmation of the much-discussed "squircle" design. The term "squircle" – a hybrid of square and circle – has been floating in tech circles for months, and now it seems Samsung is indeed taking a bold step away from its traditional circular watch face design.
This development marks a significant moment in the evolution of Samsung's wearables, suggesting not just a cosmetic shift but a broader rethinking of the Galaxy Watch’s usability, ergonomics, and software optimization. In this in-depth breakdown, we’ll explore everything we know so far about the Galaxy Watch8 Classic, the implications of the squircle form factor, the leak’s origin, what the eBay listing reveals, how it compares to past Galaxy Watch models, and what this could mean for the smartwatch market as a whole.
📦 1. The Leak: How the Ga...
Qualcomm's Latest Snapdragon G-Series Chips to Power Upcoming Handhelds from Ayaneo, OneXPlayer, and Retroid Pocket
Qualcomm has unveiled its latest lineup of gaming-focused processors—the Snapdragon G3 Gen 3, G2 Gen 2, and G1 Gen 2—designed to enhance the performance of next-generation Android gaming handhelds. These advancements promise significant improvements over their predecessors, catering to a wide range of gaming enthusiasts.
Snapdragon G3 Gen 3: Elevating Handheld Gaming
At the forefront is the Snapdragon G3 Gen 3, succeeding the G3x Gen 2 from 2023. This processor features an octa-core Kryo CPU configuration, comprising one prime core, five performance cores, and two efficiency cores. While specific core details and clock speeds remain undisclosed, Qualcomm asserts a 30% performance boost compared to its predecessor. The integrated Adreno A32 GPU further enhances graphics capabilities, boasting a 28% improvement over the previous generation.
The G3 Gen 3 supports displays with refresh rates up to 144Hz and resolutions reaching QHD+. Notable features include hardware-accelerated ray tracing, Snapdragon Game Super Resolution, and the Adreno Frame Motion Engine 3.0. It also marks the first in the G series to support Lumen, Unreal Engine 5's dynamic global illumination and reflections system. Connectivity options are robust, with the FastConnect 7800 module offering Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.3. Manufacturers can also opt for the Snapdragon X61 5G modem to facilitate on-the-go cloud gaming.
Snapdragon G2 Gen 2: Mainstream Gaming Enhanced
The Snapdragon G2 Gen 2 serves the mainstream gaming segment, replacing the G2 Gen 1. It features an octa-core Kryo CPU with one prime core, four performance cores, and three efficiency cores, delivering a 2.3x performance increase over its predecessor. The Adreno A22 GPU offers a substantial 3.8x improvement in graphics performance. This processor supports displays up to 144Hz at QHD+ resolutions and includes features like Snapdragon Game Super Resolution and Adreno Frame Motion Engine 2.0. Connectivity is ensured through the FastConnect 7800 module, with optional 5G support via the Snapdragon X61 modem.
Snapdragon G1 Gen 2: Optimized for Game Streaming
Targeting game streaming and basic gaming needs, the Snapdragon G1 Gen 2 succeeds the G1 Gen 1. Its octa-core Kryo CPU, configured with two performance and six efficiency cores, offers an 80% performance uplift. The Adreno A12 GPU provides a 25% graphics performance boost. This processor supports displays up to 120Hz at FHD+ resolutions and offers Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity, with optional 5G capabilities through the Snapdragon X61 modem.
Upcoming Devices Featuring Snapdragon G-Series Chips
Several manufacturers are set to release handheld gaming devices powered by these new Snapdragon processors:
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AYANEO Pocket S: This flagship Android gaming handheld is among the first to utilize the Snapdragon G3x Gen 2 platform. AYANEO has collaborated closely with Qualcomm to integrate this cutting-edge processor, aiming to deliver a high-end gaming experience. The Pocket S features a 6-inch 1440p borderless IPS mirror screen with a pixel density of 490 PPI, providing sharp and vibrant visuals. It boasts a slim 14mm profile, a CNC all-metal mid-frame, and advanced cooling solutions, including a large-area VC heat plate and active air cooling system, ensuring sustained performance. The device also supports triple-mode vibration and features RGB Hall sensing joysticks and linear Hall triggers for precise control. The AYANEO Pocket S is expected to launch in April 2025.
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OneXPlayer OneXSugar: This innovative device offers a transforming design with swing-out gamepads and screens, allowing it to function both horizontally like a Nintendo Switch or Steam Deck and vertically resembling a Nintendo DS when its second screen is deployed. The OneXSugar is powered by the Snapdragon G3x Gen 2 platform, providing enhanced CPU and GPU performance. While primarily focused on Android gaming, there is potential for future support of other operating systems.
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Retroid Pocket: The upcoming Retroid Pocket devices are set to feature the Snapdragon G2 Gen 2 and G1 Gen 2 processors, catering to different segments of the gaming market. These devices aim to provide improved performance for both mainstream gaming and game streaming applications.
Qualcomm's Commitment to Gaming
Qualcomm's introduction of the Snapdragon G3 Gen 3, G2 Gen 2, and G1 Gen 2 processors underscores its dedication to advancing mobile gaming technology. By offering tailored solutions for various gaming needs—from high-end flagship devices to mainstream and streaming-focused handhelds—Qualcomm is poised to significantly influence the future landscape of Android gaming handhelds.
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