By Hash Techs 
Qualcomm is set to release the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 2 chip, which is expected to be up to 20% pricier than the current model, causing worries about potential price hikes for smartphones in Brazil.
Brands are often criticized for using outdated processors and their own manufacturing, yet this strategy helps keep smartphone prices relatively lower despite their high cost.
The Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 2, manufactured with TSMC’s 3 nanometer N3P process, offers enhanced performance and energy efficiency. Qualcomm chip users have stated they will not bear the price hike, which will significantly affect consumers in countries like Brazil with high taxes and import costs.
The highest quality phones will experience the most impact.
Top-tier smartphones in Brazil are already very expensive, sometimes costing over R$ 10,000. The introduction of the new Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 2 may push these prices even higher, further limiting access to premium devices for many people.
The high exchange rate in Brazil is causing electronics prices to increase, making premium mobile phones potentially unaffordable for many people.
More costly middle stages as well
The prices of mid-range and budget smartphones have increased significantly, making it harder for low-income individuals to afford a good device.
If this pattern persists, the typical Brazilian may increasingly find themselves further away from advanced and high-performing gadgets, limiting themselves to simpler choices.
We conducted a test on the Edge 50 Pro, revealing that our previously more powerful cell phone is now showing signs of decreased performance while still maintaining a high cost.
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