Broadcom has just introduced a new dual-core processor for mobile phones which it promises will deliver high-end experiences to low-cost Android phones.
The Broadcom BCM2157 dual-core baseband processor promises to be more affordable than other chips in this class and it should come in at 500 MHz. This will also include support for 3G HSDPA modems, mobile hotspot capabilities to share a connection with up to eight devices, multi-touch screens, 5-megapixel cameras and even dual-SIM capabilities.
“The smartphone continues to influence the cellular industry, with defining features like multi-touch screens and the ability to run applications now enriching lower cost handsets. We’ve maximized the functionality of our new Android-processing baseband platform to enable our partners to deliver the most popular features in more affordable designs,” said Scott Bibaud, EVP, Broadcom’s Mobile Platforms Group, in a prepared statement.
The Broadcom dual-core processor could lead to a strong class of Android smartphones for the mass markets. While many IntoMobile readers lust after top-shelf phones like the Droid X, the mainstream users may be more drawn to other devices aimed at other segments. This new chip could help power a new crop of middle-of-the-road phones.
This is just the latest example of how dual-core processors are going to to impact the mobile market next year. NVIDIA already has its Tegra 2 chip out there and Samsung is also prepping its Orion chip, which also sports multiple cores.
These types of processors are supposed to offer a large boost in performance, as well as save energy consumption by balancing the power load. Companies like Research In Motion have even said it is waiting for dual-core processors to become mainstream before it adds strong multimedia features to its devices and Nokia plans to have multi-core phones out in the middle of 2011. Look for every major handset maker to follow suit.
[Via Broadcom]