Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro SoC Adds AI-Based Upscaling and Frame Generation
Qualcomm’s forthcoming Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro mobile platform (model SM8975) will feature a new AI-driven capability called AI Frame Fusion. This hardware-supported function enhances video output by combining super-resolution upscaling with frame interpolation.
Technical Details of AI Frame Fusion
The AI Frame Fusion feature is enabled by two dedicated matrix ALU modules within the GPU shaders. These modules accelerate General Matrix Multiply (GEMM) and convolution operations, which are critical for AI processing. This hardware setup appears unique to the SM8975 and is not included in the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 (model SM8950).
In super-resolution mode, the system uses multiple data sources such as motion vectors, depth buffers, low-resolution color buffers, and data from previous frames to upscale video to 1080p or 1440p. Meanwhile, the frame generation mode uses motion vector and optical flow reprojection techniques to insert interpolated frames between two existing frames, leading to smoother video playback.
Chip Size and Connectivity Enhancements
The SM8975 chip measures approximately 12.6 × 10.67 mm, totaling about 134 mm². This is slightly larger than the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip, which measures 126.2 mm². The platform’s accompanying SDR885 transceiver supports advanced 4×4 MIMO on both downlink and uplink channels, offering improved wireless connectivity.
Implications for Xiaomi 18 Pro Series
Leaks indicate that Xiaomi’s upcoming Xiaomi 18 Pro series will use the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro. This suggests the phones could benefit from the new AI Frame Fusion technology, potentially offering sharper video playback and smoother animations, especially in video streaming and gaming scenarios. The inclusion of enhanced modem features also points to faster and more reliable network performance.
Previous coverage
Earlier reports have detailed the Xiaomi 18 Pro’s use of the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro chipset along with a dual 200MP camera system and a rear preview screen. This new AI frame technology adds a valuable hardware feature to that flagship SoC, complementing the device’s multimedia strengths. For more on the Xiaomi 18 Pro specifications and global launch, see our previous report here.
Source: ithome.com
