MediaTek and Qualcomm trim GPU cores for cheaper flagship chips

MediaTek and Qualcomm are using GPU binning to create cheaper flagship chip variants. We analyze how core reductions impact device performance and pricing.

MediaTek and Qualcomm are quietly adjusting their flagship chip strategies by using GPU binning to create cheaper variants. This approach allows manufacturers to offer lower-priced devices without sacrificing the CPU or modem performance that buyers expect from high-end phones. We see this trend reshaping how we evaluate performance claims in the current smartphone market.

Binned variants reduce graphical power while keeping CPU and modem specs intact

The Dimensity 9500 serves as the primary example of this shift. The standard version features a 12-core Arm Mali-G1-Ultra MC12 GPU. A binned variant of the same chip reduces this to an 11-core MC11 configuration. Qualcomm follows a similar path with the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 V Series, which trims the Adreno GPU cores while keeping other components intact.

Spec comparison

Spec	Dimensity 9500 (Standard)	Dimensity 9500 (Binned)	Dimensity 9500s (Redmi Turbo 5 Max)	Dimensity 9500s (Poco X8 Pro Max)
GPU Model	Arm Mali-G1-Ultra MC12	Arm Mali-G1-Ultra MC11	Mali Immortalis-G925 MC12	Mali Immortalis-G925 MC11
GPU Core Count	12	11	12	11
Geekbench 6.7.1 (Single)	N/A	3,445	N/A	N/A
Geekbench 6.7.1 (Multi)	N/A	10,517	N/A	N/A

Real-world performance data from Geekbench 6.7.1 shows the binned Dimensity 9500 scoring 3,445 in single-core and 10,517 in multi-core tests. Device implementations vary by manufacturer. The Redmi Turbo 5 Max reportedly uses the full 12-core Mali Immortalis-G925 MC12 GPU. In contrast, the Poco X8 Pro Max reportedly uses the cut-down 11-core MC11 variant.

These hardware differences highlight a clear trade-off between cost and raw graphical power. The CPU, NPU, and modem remain fully intact in the binned variants. This strategy enables companies to retain flagship marketing figures while reducing component costs. Buyers should check specific device reviews to confirm which GPU configuration their chosen phone contains.

Speculations about final retail configurations often stem from early Geekbench listings. A device identified as the vivo V2573A is believed to be the iQOO Neo 11 Extreme Edition. However, specifications from these listings may not reflect the final products that reach stores. We must wait for official retail releases to confirm the exact hardware details.

Source: NotebookCheck