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Qualcomm’s First Watch Extreme processor debuts with 18 cores and 5 GHz speed

A powerhouse is coming: 18 cores, 5 GHz, and Asus’s exclusive grip. Will Germany get Qualcomm’s fastest chip in time?

The image shows a Dell XPS 13 9370 laptop with an Intel Core i5-4300U processor, 8GB of RAM, 256GB...
The image shows a Dell XPS 13 9370 laptop with an Intel Core i5-4300U processor, 8GB of RAM, 256GB SSD, 13.3" FHD display, and Windows 10 Pro operating system.

Qualcomm’s First Watch Extreme processor debuts with 18 cores and 5 GHz speed

Qualcomm has unveiled its latest processor, the Snapdragon X2 First Watch, with a high-end variant called the First Watch Extreme. The chip was benchmarked in October 2025 and officially announced at CES 2026. However, key details about its German release remain unclear.

Asus has secured exclusive early access to the top-tier First Watch Extreme model through a special partnership with Qualcomm. The processor promises significant performance upgrades, including 18 cores and a 5 GHz clock speed.

The standard Snapdragon X2 First Watch was originally expected in the first half of 2026. Now, reports suggest it may arrive earlier, in the first quarter. The first devices featuring this chip could debut at CES 2026, with retail sales following shortly after.

The First Watch Extreme variant, however, remains shrouded in uncertainty. While benchmarked in early October 2025 and announced at CES, Qualcomm has yet to confirm a sales start date for Germany. Asus, as Qualcomm’s privileged partner, will be the only manufacturer offering this high-performance version initially.

Performance-wise, the First Watch Extreme stands out with 18 cores and a peak clock speed of 5 GHz. These specs position it as one of the most powerful mobile processors on the market, though exact availability details are still pending.

The Snapdragon X2 First Watch is set to launch in early 2026, with possible showcases at CES. Asus will lead the market with the First Watch Extreme variant, thanks to its exclusive deal. However, German consumers may have to wait longer for official pricing and release dates.

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