Qualcomm Unveils Snapdragon Reality Elite Chipset for AI Spatial Computing 

Qualcomm has announced its Snapdragon Reality Elite platform that will power the new-generation mixed reality devices to deliver powerful immersive spatial computing experiences. The architecture targets multiple form factors, including all-in-one video-see-through (VST) headsets and tethered optical-see-through (OST) glasses.

On-Device Generative AI Performance

The platform features an integrated Qualcomm Hexagon neural processing unit (NPU) that delivers up to 48 TOPS of localized computing power, allowing large language models (LLM) and large vision models (LVM) to execute on-device, photorealistic avatars with Gaussian Splatting and improved XR experience with improved contextual awareness and natural interaction.  

Processing and Graphical Benchmarks

Compared to the previous-generation Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2 chipset, the new platform increases NPU performance by 160 percent. The processor contains a Qualcomm Kryo CPU configured with four performance cores and two efficiency cores, yielding a 30 percent performance increase. The integrated Qualcomm Adreno GPU delivers up to 60 percent higher performance.

Snapdragon Reality Elite supports up to 4.4K resolution per eye at 90 frames per second. It features an Engine for Visual Analytics (EVA) block for hardware-accelerated computer vision workloads, including depth estimation, head tracking, and hand tracking. The hardware maintains operational temperatures up to 12 degrees Celsius cooler under load while extending battery life by 20 percent at equivalent workloads.

Availability

Xreal will deploy the chipset first in its upcoming Xreal Aura headset, which launches later this year.

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