Recent patent disputes in the tech industry reflect the importance of independent research and development for companies aiming to grow. In this regard, Huawei has always been at the forefront among domestic manufacturers, as it is one of the few smartphone manufacturers with self-developed processors. Currently, the strongest Huawei processor is the Kirin 955 used in the P9. However, this title of “Huawei’s strongest” is likely to change soon. There has been a lot of information circulating online about the Kirin 960 processor. Weibo user @潘九堂 leaked key information about the Kirin 960 back in late April this year.
The key points can be summarized as follows:
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Still using the big.LITTLE architecture with “4+4” cores
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Processor core architecture upgraded to ARM Cortex-A73 + Cortex-A53
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Continues to use TSMC’s 16nm FinFET process technology
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GPU will adopt Mali-G71, likely with eight cores
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Baseband will support LTE Cat.12 and CDMA networks
The Cortex-A73 core architecture is a 64-bit upgrade of the Cortex-A17, reportedly offering up to a 30% improvement in peak and sustained performance compared to the A72. The Mali-G71 GPU, based on the new “Bifrost” architecture, represents a new level of high-end mobile graphics technology, configurable with 1-32 cores, with performance density improved by up to 40% and energy efficiency improved by up to 20%, while external memory bandwidth can be reduced by 20%. The integrated baseband supporting CDMA networks means that some Huawei telecom models can avoid the issues of high heat generation and power consumption. Previously, except for models using the Kirin 650, Huawei phones supporting telecom networks required external basebands, leading to increased power consumption and heat generation issues. As for when we can see terminals equipped with this processor, reports suggest that Huawei will hold a launch event on September 1. Since this timing is just before the iPhone release, Huawei is likely to launch the Mate 9 ahead of it.
If the rumors are true, following Huawei’s tradition, it is highly likely that the Kirin 960 will appear in the Mate 9. Moreover, what is even more eye-catching is that the Mate 9 will also feature a 20-megapixel Leica dual-camera.
Whether it is the Mate 9 or the Kirin 960, we will likely have to wait until September 1 to see Huawei’s new flagship.
