ARM unveils new processor and GPU to “redefine” flagship mobile devices for 2017

Kit McDonald

ARM

The latest ARM products are aiming to set higher standards for mobile technology. With the announcement of a suite of premium mobile processor technologies, ARM is hoping to redefine virtual reality and augmented reality experiences heading into 2017.

The ARM Cortex A73 processor and the ARM Mali-G71 graphics processor are significantly improved over their predecessors, allowing devices to run in higher resolutions for longer periods of time. The latest ARM blog post shares that power usage has also been a consideration, maintaining a balance between high-end graphics and resource stability for everyday mobile devices.

“The smartphone is the world’s most ubiquitous compute device, offering experiences that improve with each new product generation,” said Pete Hutton, executive vice president and president, product groups, ARM. “In 2017, we will see devices with the Cortex-A73 and Mali-G71 processors that stand out thanks to their impressive and sustained performance, and even more stunning visuals. This technology can make engaging with 4K video, virtual reality and augmented reality an everyday experience on a mobile device.”

The Mali-G71 GPU build with Bifrost architecture is now the industry’s #1 shipping processor. The improvements include:

  • 50% increase in graphics performance
  • 20% increase in power efficiency
  • 50% more performance per mm2
  • Up to 32 shader cores

The Cortex A73 processor is just under 0.65mm2 per core, making it the smallest and most efficient ‘big’ ARM-A core according to the blog post. This small bundle packs a mean punch, improving on its predecessor by 30% sustained performance and power efficiency. In fact, the size is a large factor for the list of partners that seek to license with the processor.

With the backing of partners such as HiSilicon, Marvell, MediaTek, and Samsung Electronics, ARM continues to bring some of the most advanced digital products to mobile devices. To read more about these two game changers, visit the ARM development blog.