Qualcomm introduced its new high-end processor the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 today, which comes with Wi-Fi 7, ray tracing, and other AI features. Built with TSMC’s 4nm process, the premium smartphone processor adopts a new design, sharing the same clock frequency with its predecessor (8+ Gen 1), but featuring a new Kryo Prime performance core, with a 35% improvement in performance and 40% improvement in power efficiency compared to the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1. Its new GPU also offers up to 45% more power efficiency and performs 25% faster according to the company. Qualcomm has also introduced real-time ray tracing support, powering a better gaming experience. Chinese gaming giant NetEase has already demonstrated the feature on its mobile title Yi Shuihan, showcasing realistic light reflection and vivid colors. Some 17 brands (including sub-brands) will ship phones with the processor according to Qualcomm, 15 of which are from China. [Qualcomm, press release]