Image: Chris Martin / Foundry
Qualcomm has unveiled its latest high-performance Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, marking a significant technological advancement in mobile processing power. While the first devices powered by this cutting-edge chip, notably the Xiaomi 17 series, are expected to debut today, consumers may need to wait before experiencing a major feature enhancement promised for future flagship smartphones.
This new iteration not only brings various performance enhancements but also introduces the Advanced Professional Video (APV) codec, setting a new benchmark for mobile video capabilities. With the iPhone long dominating the mobile video recording space, Android devices are poised to make significant strides with the introduction of APV, which enhances video quality and offers robust post-production capabilities.
The APV codec aims to provide ‘professional-level video production,’ delivering ‘groundbreaking’ AI camera functionalities. Qualcomm claims it can achieve “near-lossless” video quality, enabling users to make more sophisticated in-camera adjustments that can enhance their overall production value.
However, there’s an unexpected delay in the rollout of this exciting technology to consumers.
Chris Martin / Foundry
The aforementioned Xiaomi 17 series is set to be the inaugural range of smartphones featuring the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor. However, it appears that they may be lacking the highly anticipated APV codec feature.
In a recent Elite Experience Q&A, Qualcomm’s VP of Product Management, Judd Heape, indicated that while he couldn’t specify which handset manufacturer would launch devices equipped with APV, he projected a timeline for availability in January 2026.
This suggests not only that Xiaomi’s smartphones will arrive without this significant update, but it’s also likely that the upcoming OnePlus 15 will omit it as well.
Heape’s comments notably align with the expected launch of Samsung’s Galaxy S26 series, rumored to adopt the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip. Hence, these devices could likely be the first to showcase the Advanced Professional Video codec.
In a follow-up session, when pressed about the timeline for APV’s implementation, Heape reaffirmed, “With these things, you have to wait and see, and I can’t disclose which OEM is going to bring out APV, but it will be coming.” He further emphasized that “I think the safe bet is 2026.”
It seems that the integration of APV will be reserved for next year’s flagship offerings rather than the immediate release of Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 devices. Given that APV is a Samsung-developed technology, it was uncertain when it would be adopted. Therefore, prioritizing its availability in their flagship devices seems justified.
Qualcomm covered my travel expenses and meals while attending its Snapdragon Technology Summit. The company did not influence or control the content presented by Tech Advisor.
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