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Attack on Apple

New Snapdragon Chip Aims to Enable Ultra-Affordable Windows Laptops

Smartphone with Qualcomm Logo
Qualcomm aims to lay the foundation for particularly affordable Windows laptops with Snapdragon C. Photo: picture alliance / ZUMAPRESS.com
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June 2, 2026, 1:47 pm | Read time: 3 minutes

With the MacBook Neo, Apple has revitalized competition in the entry-level notebook segment. Since March 2026, the company has offered its most affordable laptop starting at 699 euros. In the education sector, the price is 599 euros. This moves Apple closer to a market previously dominated by inexpensive Windows notebooks and Chromebooks. As a result, manufacturers of these devices face increased pressure to offer attractive alternatives. Qualcomm is responding with a new platform called Snapdragon C, specifically designed for affordable Windows laptops.

Snapdragon C Focuses on Typical Tasks

According to Qualcomm, Snapdragon C is aimed at users who primarily use everyday applications. These include browsing the internet, streaming videos, editing documents, and video calls. Instead of maximum performance, the platform aims to offer a balanced overall package. The chip company promises, among other things:

  • responsive systems
  • long battery life
  • cool devices
  • quiet operation

Additionally, Qualcomm integrates an NPU for AI functions. However, based on the information released so far, it is not yet possible to definitively assess how Snapdragon C’s performance compares to other solutions.

Acer Unveils First Notebook with New Platform

Among the first devices with Snapdragon C is the Acer Aspire Go 15. The notebook comes with Windows 11 Home and features a 15.6-inch Full HD display. Acer also mentions up to 8 GB of RAM and up to 512 GB of internal storage. The available ports include:

  • two USB-C ports
  • USB-A
  • HDMI
  • audio jack

For wireless connectivity, the device supports Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.4. The battery has a capacity of 53 watt-hours.

More on the topic

Copilot Button Despite Lack of Copilot+ Classification

Acer emphasizes the practical everyday use of the Aspire Go 15. According to Qualcomm, the notebook does not meet the requirements for the Copilot+ class. The reason is that Snapdragon C does not meet the necessary criteria.

Also of interest: Ancient vulnerability not patched? Hacker exposes Microsoft

Nevertheless, Acer includes a special Copilot button. Additionally, the AcerSense software is available, which is intended to provide quicker access to system settings and device information. The Aspire Go 15 thus remains primarily a notebook for classic tasks such as browsing, streaming, and office work.

Qualcomm Targets the 250-Euro Class

Qualcomm also makes its pricing direction clear. Notebooks with Snapdragon C are expected to start at 300 U.S. dollars, which is equivalent to a little over 250 euros.

For the Aspire Go 15, Acer has not yet announced a launch date or specific prices. Whether the first Snapdragon C notebooks will actually appear in this price range in Germany depends on factors such as features, taxes, and exchange rates, according to the available information. If successful, affordable Windows notebooks could become more attractive again for many interested parties who find even the MacBook Neo too expensive.

This article is a machine translation of the original German version of TECHBOOK and has been reviewed for accuracy and quality by a native speaker. For feedback, please contact us at info@techbook.de.

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