UWB could be available on many more Android-compatible smartphones thanks to the Snapdragon 8 Elite.

UWB could be available on many more Android-compatible smartphones thanks to the Snapdragon 8 Elite.

The Snapdragon 8 Elite CPU from Qualcomm appears to be a magnificent addition to Android phones in the near future. Additionally, it appears that a new generation of smartphones with UWB compatibility will be introduced by the Snapdragon 8 Elite.

The Snapdragon 8 Elite has a ton of strong hardware along with other enhancements. One of those improvements is in connection, as Qualcomm's flagship processor now comes standard with ultra-wideband (UWB). According to Android Authority, the FastConnect 7900 connection technology integrates UWB into the chip itself, eliminating the need for OEMs to install it.

Although UWB isn't commonly utilized on Android, mostly due to its limited availability on phones, it can be useful for close-quarters chores like a digital vehicle key in Google Wallet. Eventually, it will also be compatible with Find My Device trackers.

 
The direct integration of UWB on the Snapdragon 8 Elite probably indicates that Android devices—at least those that use Qualcomm's top chip—will support the protocol more widely in the future. Theoretically, this might result in the technology appearing in gadgets like Samsung's Galaxy S25 and Flip 7 that previously wouldn't have it. However, it's unclear how Android makers will react to this new technology and the Snapdragon 8 Elite in general. MediaTek's most recent flagship, the Dimensity 9400, has already been utilized more widely.

At the very least, we’re glad to see this happen, and hopefully it’ll mark the start of seeing UWB used much more often.