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Qualcomm Delays Arm Gaming Chips for Windows Handhelds
27 Feb
Summary
- Qualcomm has postponed announcements for its gaming chips.
- A global memory shortage is impacting chip production.
- The delay may affect upcoming gaming consoles and handhelds.
Qualcomm has shifted its plans, announcing it will not reveal updates to its Snapdragon G Series gaming chips at the 2026 Game Developers Conference. This marks a change from earlier hints that the company might introduce powerful Arm-based processors for Windows gaming handhelds at the event. The company attributes the delay to the significant global memory shortage.
This 'RAMageddon' is causing device manufacturers to scale back production. Qualcomm's leadership has stated that the AI industry's demand for components is largely defining the phone industry's scale for the year. This shortage has already led to supply issues for devices like Valve's Steam Deck and could potentially impact upcoming hardware, including the rumored Switch 2 and Sony's PS6.
Microsoft's close collaboration with Qualcomm on Windows on Arm projects and internal shifts within Microsoft's gaming division might also play a role in the delayed announcements. Despite these setbacks, the potential for Arm gaming devices running Windows titles remains, with early results from Valve's efforts showing promise.
