Broadcom brings high-end features to budget Android devices

Semiconductor firm Broadcom has unveiled a cost-effective dual-core processor, designed to bring the functionality of high-end devices to affordable 3G Android handsets.

The chipset will be powered by a 500MHz dual-core ARM processor, with built-in support for HVGA displays, multi-touch screens, 3G connectivity, dual SIM and 5-megapixel cameras.

Users will be able to create mobile hotspots, with the 3G connection capable of being shared by up to eight devices over Wi-Fi.

The processor will also support GPS and Near Field Communications (NFC) technology, which will be debuted in the Google Nexus S smartphone.

"The smartphone continues to influence the cellular industry, with defining features like multi-touch screens and the ability to run applications now enriching lower cost handsets,” said Scott Bibaud, executive vice president and general manager, Broadcom's mobile platforms group.

“We've maximised the functionality of our new Android-processing baseband platform to enable our partners to deliver the most popular features in more affordable designs."

The BCM2157 platform is likely to close the gap between the high-end and entry-level Android devices. With over 300,00 Android devices being activated daily and market share estimated to be 43 per cent in the US alone, this is likely to continue growing next year.

Sales of high-end Android and Apple devices are unlikely to be affected by the adoption of this chip, as it will be used by manufacturers to attract first-time smartphone buyers, explained Nick Dillon, an analyst at Ovum.

“Processors, screen and memory are main areas where costs can be saved in a smartphone. The Broadcom chip will help to reduce handset cost and allow low-end devices to attract first-time buyers and eat into the feature phone market,” he said.

“[Meanwhile] the incorporation of dual-core processors in high-end devices is likely to be the natural progression in 2011.”

Devices with the Broadcom chip are expected to launch in the first quarter of 2011, and are likely to be showcased at CES and Mobile World Congress early next year.