The OnePlus Z was previously rumored to sport MediaTek’s Dimensity 1000 chipset.
A new leak has revealed that the OnePlus Z will be powered by a Snapdragon chipset instead. Popular tipster Max J shared that the “Lite” version of the OnePlus 8 series is set to be fueled by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 765G chipset, which is based on the 7nm architecture.
A usual thirst for power
The leaker added that OnePlus might have initially planned to use MediaTek’s Dimensity 1000 SoC, but changed its mind later for an undisclosed reason. If the Qualcomm route ever pans out, the OnePlus Z would have been the company’s first smartphone to bank on a non-Snapdragon chipset.
OnePlus’ new direction may have something to do with its usual thirst for mobile power. While MediaTek’s Dimensity 1000 chipset is built on a similar 7nm process, Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 765G chip uses a more powerful ARM Cortex-A77 high-performance cores.
MediaTek’s newest chip also doesn’t sport mmWave 5G support, which could be one of the pertinent reasons as to why Qualcomm is choosing this new direction.
A costly matter
Cost is another reason why OnePlus could be mulling over releasing the OnePlus Z with the Snapdragon 765G chipset. Having Qualcomm’s 5G-enabled mid-range SoC should make the upcoming phone a new target for users who like high-powered phones which don’t break the bank.
This mobile route is already forming a trend nowadays as the Google Pixel 5 is also expected to ship with Snapdragon 765G chip. The Pixel phone may not launch with the Snapdragon 865 as scheduled due to “cost” concerns. The handset is rumored to launch later this year.
OnePlus Z’s rumored features
OnePlus’ forthcoming “Z’ entry is rumored to feature a large 6.4-inch AMOLED display with a FullHD+ resolution. The handset’s display is also featuring a 90Hz refresh rate.
Renders of the OnePlus Z also suggest that the phone will arrive with a hole-punch placed right at the top center of its display. The phone is also tipped to sport a triple-camera system on its rear and could launch with a 48MP primary sensor.
The OnePlus Z is also speculated to work on a 4,000mAh battery, with support for 30W fast wired charging.
Pricing and availability
The OnePlus Z, which is initially expected to debut with the OnePlus 8 and 8 Pro in April, is now tipped to make its debut in July. Its price should be lower than its siblings.
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