Google has unveiled the final, shipping version of its Chrome browser tailored specifically for Snapdragon PCs, just ahead of the imminent launch of PCs equipped with the Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite processor. This release marks a significant step forward for users of Windows-based Snapdragon devices, offering them access to Chrome’s renowned browsing experience.
Expected to be accessible via Google, this iteration of Chrome for Snapdragon PCs will complement the longstanding version designed for X86 PCs, which has dominated the market for years. The timing aligns neatly with Qualcomm’s soft launch of the Snapdragon X Elite platform last fall, paving the way for the arrival of PCs featuring the Snapdragon X Elite processor in mid-2024.
Among the initial wave of devices anticipated to debut with the Snapdragon X Elite processor are consumer variants of the Microsoft Surface Pro 10 and the Surface Laptop 6. These devices, marketed as the Surface Pro 10 for Business and the Surface Laptop 6 for Business, initially announced with Intel Core Ultra processors, are now poised to leverage the capabilities of Snapdragon technology. With nine PC vendors set to launch Snapdragon X Elite PCs, the stage is set for a new era of computing.
Chrome’s commitment to the Snapdragon platform is particularly noteworthy, given the historical challenges faced by earlier iterations of Snapdragon PCs in terms of software support. While previous devices often grappled with unoptimized apps and compatibility issues, the optimized Chrome browser promises a seamless browsing experience. Qualcomm has highlighted a significant performance boost demonstrated by the optimized Chrome browser, as evidenced by a notable improvement in benchmark scores.
While Qualcomm’s track record with Snapdragon PCs has been mixed in the past, the arrival of the Snapdragon X Elite processor signals renewed optimism. With the optimized Chrome browser set to enhance the browsing experience on Snapdragon PCs, users can look forward to a smoother and more efficient computing experience.
