Qualcomm is getting ready for its big Snapdragon Summit next month, and all eyes are on what the company has up its sleeve for 2025’s Android flagships. While the spotlight will likely be on the top-tier Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 (model number SM8850), a fresh rumor has sparked interest in another upcoming chip — the one with model number SM8845. According to trusted source Digital Chat Station, this chip could be called Snapdragon 8 Gen 5.
Now, if you’re wondering — no, this isn’t the successor to the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4. That chip’s follow-up is expected to be the Snapdragon 8s Gen 5, which will sit below this rumored Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 in Qualcomm’s performance ladder. And above them all? That’s where the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 is expected to land.
Qualcomm’s Naming Puzzle: What’s Going On?
Honestly, Qualcomm’s chip names have started to feel like a puzzle game. Not long ago, things were pretty straightforward. Snapdragon 8 Gen 1, Gen 2, Gen 3… then, boom — instead of a “Gen 4,” we got the Snapdragon 8 Elite. So now, seeing talk of a Gen 5 might seem confusing, but it could signal Qualcomm is splitting its lineup into more layers.
It’s possible that Qualcomm wants to clearly separate its “Elite” chips — the absolute best of the best — from the still-premium but slightly less powerful models like the rumored Snapdragon 8 Gen 5.
That being said, the SM8845 chip is still a mystery in many ways. Specs haven’t leaked out in full yet, and we don’t even know if Qualcomm will officially reveal it next month at the summit in Hawaii or save it for a later launch. The only thing people agree on? It’s going to sit somewhere between the Elite and 8s models, offering strong performance for high-end phones that might not need the absolute top-tier hardware.
Why This Matters for 2025 Phones
Assuming the rumor holds true, phones powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 could hit a sweet spot. You’d get close-to-flagship speeds, excellent AI capabilities, and top-tier camera processing — all without reaching the highest pricing tier of the Elite chip lineup.
Think of it as a “smart premium” option for brands that want performance but don’t necessarily need to max out every spec. If you’re the kind of person who likes smooth gaming, fast multitasking, and reliable connectivity without going all-in on price, this chip could end up in the phone you buy next year.
What’s Next?
For now, everything is pointing to October’s Snapdragon Summit as the next big reveal. Qualcomm usually introduces its next-gen flagship chip there, and SM8850 a.k.a. Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 is almost certain to make its debut. Whether SM8845 (Snapdragon 8 Gen 5) joins it on stage is still unclear.
But one thing’s for sure — Qualcomm is reshaping its lineup again, and that means more choices for phone makers and more options for us.
Final Thoughts
Qualcomm’s naming strategy might make your head spin for a moment, but behind the names are real changes in how smartphone chips are tiered. If the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 is real, it could become the go-to chip for premium Android phones in 2025 that don’t carry the Ultra or Pro price tag.
Also Read | Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 Hits 5GHz — Is This the Fastest Chip Ever?
