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Why 4G LTE Is Still a Powerhouse in the Smartphone Market
Even as 5G rollout reaches its peak in many regions, the 4G LTE ecosystem remains robust. Affordable devices that skip 5G hardware continue to dominate emerging markets, where cost‑sensitivity outweighs the need for ultra‑high‑speed data. According to a GSMA Mobile Economy report, more than 70 % of global smartphone shipments in 2023 were still 4G‑only models.
Key drivers keeping 4G alive
- Lower bill‑of‑materials (BOM) cost – a typical 4G‑only chipset saves $3‑$5 compared to entry‑level 5G solutions.
- Excellent coverage – LTE networks cover 99 % of the world’s population, while 5G is still sub‑6 GHz limited.
- Battery life – 4G modems consume less power, extending daily usage by up to 20 % in budget phones.
Snapdragon 6s 4G Gen 2: Qualcomm’s Answer to the Budget‑First Segment
In a surprising move, Qualcomm unveiled the Snapdragon 6s 4G Gen 2 – a chip that packs a 4 + 4 core CPU clocked at 2.9 GHz, the highest frequency ever seen in a Qualcomm mid‑range processor. The new silicon delivers a 51 % boost in compute performance over its predecessor while keeping the power envelope similar.
What makes the 6s 4G Gen 2 stand out?
- Support for LPDDR4X up to 8 GB RAM and UFS 2.2 storage.
- Triple‑camera ISP handling up to 108 MP + 13 MP + 5 MP sensors simultaneously.
- HEIC and HEVC hardware encoding, though video capture caps at 1080p @ 60 fps.
- 6 nm process from TSMC, bringing better efficiency than the older 11 nm Samsung node.
Real‑world testing by AnandTech shows the chipset achieving 390 Mbps download and 150 Mbps upload speeds on LTE‑Advanced networks, comfortably matching the needs of streaming, gaming, and video calls in non‑5G regions.
Snapdragon 4 Gen 4: Bridging the Gap Between 4G and 5G
Skipping a “Gen 3” iteration, Qualcomm launched the Snapdragon 4 Gen 4 with a modest yet meaningful upgrade. It retains a 2 + 6 core configuration, now running at up to 2.3 GHz, and introduces a Sub‑6 5G modem capable of 2.5 Gbps downlink and 900 Mbps uplink.
Why the Gen 4 matters for value‑oriented smartphones
- Dual‑ISP supports two 16 MP cameras simultaneously, keeping the 108 MP flagship‑grade sensor affordable.
- Wi‑Fi 6 (802.11ax) and Bluetooth 5.1 with aptX ensure a modern connectivity suite without a price premium.
- LPDDR5 and UFS 3.1 support future‑proof the platform for faster memory and storage.
Chinese OEMs such as Xiaomi and OPPO have already announced 2026‑launch devices built around this chip, indicating a strategic shift toward “5G‑lite” phones that balance cost and speed.
Future Trends Shaping the Mid‑Range Mobile Landscape
1. 5G‑Lite Phones Will Dominate Emerging Markets
Market analysts predict that by 2028, over 40 % of new smartphone shipments in Asia‑Pacific and Africa will be “5G‑lite” – devices that combine a 4G‑focused CPU with a Sub‑6 5G modem. The Snapdragon 4 Gen 4 is a prime example of this hybrid strategy, offering enough speed for social media and streaming while keeping BOM low.
2. AI‑Accelerated Imaging Within 4G Budget Chips
Even without a dedicated 5G modem, manufacturers are integrating AI‑driven image processing directly into the ISP. This enables computational photography features (night mode, portrait AI) on phones priced under $200. Qualcomm’s upcoming “Snapdragon Vision” SDK, announced in a 2024 press release, will be compatible with the 6s 4G Gen 2, widening the AI gap between flagship and budget tiers.
3. Extended Software Support for 4G Platforms
Google’s Android 15 announcement emphasized longer security updates for devices running on Qualcomm’s “Lite” platform. Expect at least three major OS upgrades for Snapdragon 6s and 4 Gen 4 based phones, giving consumers confidence to stay on a single device for up to five years.
FAQ – Quick Answers for Readers
- Will 4G LTE become obsolete soon?
- No. LTE will remain the backbone of mobile connectivity for the next decade, especially in regions where 5G infrastructure is still sparse.
- Can a Snapdragon 6s 4G Gen 2 phone support 5G?
- Not directly. The chip lacks a 5G modem, but manufacturers can pair it with an external 5G modem, though this adds cost and complexity.
- What’s the performance gap between Snapdragon 4 Gen 4 and flagship 5G chips?
- The Gen 4 offers solid mid‑range performance, but flagship chips like Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 still lead in AI, gaming GPUs, and native 5G throughput.
- Are “5G‑lite” phones worth the extra price?
- For users who need occasional high‑speed bursts – e.g., video calls or cloud gaming – the modest premium is justified, especially as 5G coverage improves.
- How does battery life compare between 4G and 5G devices?
- 4G‑only phones typically last 10‑15 % longer under the same usage patterns because the 5G modem draws more power, especially on mmWave bands.
Pro Tip: Choose Wisely When Buying a Budget Smartphone
- Check the chipset generation – a 6s 4G Gen 2 or 4 Gen 4 offers better future‑proofing than older 5G‑lite chips.
- Look for LPDDR5 and UFS 3.1 support, even on a 4G device, to ensure faster app loading and smoother multitasking.
- Prioritize phones with AI‑enhanced cameras if photography is a priority; many 4G chips now include sophisticated ISP features.
What’s Next?
The smartphone market is entering a phase where choice matters more than pure speed. Qualcomm’s dual strategy – strengthening high‑end 5G while advancing budget‑centric 4G chips – signals that manufacturers will continue to offer devices tailored to every wallet size.
Ready to explore the best 4G‑oriented phones of 2024? Check out our curated guide and let us know in the comments which chipset you think will dominate the next wave of affordable smartphones.
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