It’s 2025, and we’re still seeing new phones powered by the Snapdragon 685. Why are brands holding on to this dated chip?
One recent example is the newly released HONOR X7d, which runs on the Snapdragon 685 chipset — the same processor seen in budget models from a few years ago.
Why It Matters: Despite the growing availability of affordable 5G phones, brands continue to sell 4G models powered by dated chips. This reflects ongoing demand in markets where users prioritize price, battery life, and reliability over next-generation connectivity.
The HONOR X7d shows that there is still a place for older hardware when paired with practical features. It uses the Snapdragon 685, a 6nm 4G chipset, paired with up to 8 GB of RAM and 256 GB of storage.
The phone also features a 6.77-inch HD+ display with a 120 Hz refresh rate, a 108 MP main camera, and a large 6,500 mAh battery with 35W fast charging. It adds an IP65 rating for dust and water resistance, a side-mounted fingerprint sensor, and a physical AI button for quick actions.
While the Snapdragon 685 may appear outdated, it remains a cost-efficient and proven choice for budget-oriented phones. Its efficiency allows longer battery life, and its mature platform simplifies production for manufacturers without raising the product price of the device higher than expected. However, its performance ceiling and 4G-only limitation make it less appealing to users who value long-term performance or access to 5G networks.
HONOR’s approach with the X7d suggests a targeted strategy. The company offers both 4G and 5G variants of the phone, using the older chip for markets where affordability and battery endurance matter more than connectivity speed. In countries where 5G infrastructure remains limited, the 4G variant helps maintain competitive pricing without compromising key usability features.
For consumers, this means that choosing the HONOR X7d 4G is more about practicality than futureproofing. It is suited for users focused on everyday tasks like browsing, streaming, and messaging. Heavy gamers or those wanting faster data speeds may want to look at the 5G version or other midrange options instead.
The continued release of Snapdragon 685 phones like the HONOR X7d shows how brands balance between cost and capability. While the global shift toward 5G is ongoing, 4G devices remain relevant where users seek reliable phones at lower prices.
Do you think brands should continue launching 4G phones like this, or is it time to move on completely to 5G?
