Qualcomm is currently testing a new ARM-based system-on-chip (SoC) for Windows computers, which is rumored to be named the Snapdragon X Plus. This new chip is expected to be a sub-tier model to the recently announced Snapdragon X Elite, which is Qualcomm’s flagship ARM chip for Windows computers.

The SKU number for the Snapdragon X Plus is X1P, which follows the same naming convention as the Snapdragon X Elite, which is the X1E. Qualcomm has been testing the X1P44100 and X1P46100 chips at least since February, according to reports. Both of these SoCs are equipped with the Snapdragon X65 5G modem. However, there is no information available about the architecture of these chips at this time.

It is possible that the cores of the Snapdragon X Elite will serve as the base for the Snapdragon X Plus, but with lower clock speeds. However, this is just speculation at this point. Winfuture‘s report suggests that the Snapdragon X Plus may feature a 10-core design, which would complement the 12-core design of the Snapdragon X Elite.

Qualcomm’s custom ARM cores are expected to bring meaningful competition to Apple’s ARM chips. Apple has been using its own ARM-based chips in its Mac computers since 2020, and these chips have been well-received by both consumers and critics. Qualcomm’s new ARM chips for Windows computers are expected to provide similar levels of performance and efficiency, which could make them a compelling alternative to Intel and AMD’s x86-based chips.

This article was originally published on April 5, 2024, at 5:40 pm ET.