SoC targets 5G smartphones with ARM Cortex-A77 CPU, Mali-G77 GPU, advanced AI processor

Today at COMPUTEX, MediaTek introduced a multi-mode, 7nm 5G system-on-chip (SoC) designed to power the first wave of high-end 5G smartphones.

The integrated 5G chipset, with the MediaTek Helio M70 5G modem built in, packs world-leading technology into its compact design. It includes Arm’s newest Cortex-A77 CPU, Mali-G77 GPU and MediaTek’s most advanced AI processing unit (APU) to meet the power and performance demands of 5G to deliver superfast connectivity and extreme user experiences.

The multi-mode 5G chipset is for 5G stand alone and non-stand alone (SA/NSA) sub-6GHz networks. It supports connectivity from 2G to 4G to bridge existing network access while 5G networks roll out globally.

The MediaTek 5G chipset is integrated with its previously announced Helio M70 5G modem to give device makers a comprehensive solution for ultra-fast 5G in a power efficient package. MediaTek’s single 5G chip design is superior to two chips solutions, especially in being able to deliver power efficient performance.

The new chipset will be ready for lead customer samples in Q3 of 2019 and be in commercial devices by Q1 of 2020. Full specifications of the MediaTek 5G SoC will be introduced in the coming months. Features and technology in the MediaTek integrated 5G SoC for sub-6GHz include:

• Helio M70 5G modem: MediaTek designed Helio M70 5G modem integrated into the SoC.
  • 4.7 Gbps download speeds and 2.5 Gbps upload speeds
  • Intelligent power savings and comprehensive power management
  • Multi-mode support – 2G, 3G, 4G, 5G – and dynamic power sharing for the best connectivity
• New AI architecture: Sports an all new AI processing unit. Supports more advanced AI applications, including for imaging like de-blur so users get great shots even when subjects are moving fast.
• Latest CPU technology: MediaTek’s 5G SoC is a performance powerhouse with the just announced new Arm Cortex-A77 CPU.
• State-of-the-art GPU: A robust new Arm Mali-G77 GPU that enables seamless extreme streaming and gaming experiences at 5G speeds.
• Innovative 7nm FinFET: World’s first 5G SoC built on the cutting-edge 7nm production process for big energy savings in a compact package.
• Speedy throughput: A peak throughput of 4.7Gps download (sub-6GHz) and New Radio (NR) 2 Component Carrier (CC) support. Supports both non-standalone (NSA) and standalone (SA) 5G network architectures.
• Powerful Multimedia & Imaging performance: Supports 4K video encode/decode at 60fps and super high resolution camera (80MP).

The 5G SoC’s integrated Helio M70 modem supports LTE and 5G dual connectivity (EN-DC) with dynamic power sharing capability, plus multi-mode support for every cellular connectivity generation from 2G to 5G. It also has dynamic bandwidth switching technology that allocates 5G bandwidth required for specific applications to improve modem power efficiency by 50 percent and extend battery life.

MediaTek already works with leading cellular operators, equipment makers and suppliers to verify the market readiness of its 5G technologies for mobile and also for smart homes and smart cars.

The current MediaTek 5G SoC is designed for global Sub-6GHz 5G networks that are launching in Asia, North America and Europe.