The handheld gaming console will feature Qualcomm’s gaming-specific Snapdragon G3X Gen 1 system-on-chip
Verizon and computer hardware manufacturer Razer are teaming up on the development and release of what they called the world’s first 5G mobile gaming console. Details were scare when the Android device was announced last week at Mobile World Congress Las Vegas, but the pair did confirm that it will house Qualcomm’s gaming-specific Snapdragon G3X Gen 1 system-on-chip (SoC), which supports 5G mmWave and sub-6, as well as Wi-Fi 6 and 6E.
In what can now be considered a foreshadowing moment, Qualcomm and Razer produced prototype of a handheld gaming device in December 2021. The prototype also featured the Snapdragon G3X Gen 1 and was made available only to developers.
Razer makes sense as a partner here, as it already offers controller kits for smartphones, which transform phones into mobile gaming consoles. However, the recently announced product is expected to be a dedicated gaming device.
According to the companies, gamers will be able to download and install games for offline play, but can also play stream games online. The hope is that this can be done with minimal latency thanks to 5G’s high-speed connectivity.
In a previous conversation with RCR Wireless News, Director of Verizon’s 5G labs and innovation centers Christian Guirnalda explained that the carrier is focused on solving “the fundamental issues” related to supporting emerging throughput requirements for the next phases of mobile content.
“This adds opportunity for the game publisher to think about enhancing the mobile gaming experience with new architecture considerations,” he said.
In addition to the gaming device, Verizon’s MWC Las Vegas announcements included a new cellular receiver, supported by the Qualcomm 5G Fixed Wireless Access Platform, as well as new entertainment and wellness services.
More details about the gaming console will be released at the RazerCon event on October 15.
