While Nvidia is widely recognized for its cutting-edge graphics processing units (GPUs) and advancements in AI technology, it has also been a significant player in the Arm processor landscape. Aside from its popular SHIELD gaming devices, Nvidia is the architect behind the Tegra chips that power over 140 million Nintendo Switch consoles, making it a noteworthy entity in mobile gaming.
Recent reports from DigiTimes Asia indicate that Nvidia is setting its sights on creating a combined CPU-GPU system-on-chip (SoC) specifically designed for Windows-based devices, with an expected launch in September 2025. This move would directly compete with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X series, effectively broadening the options for Arm-based Windows hardware to include Nvidia alongside established giants like Intel and AMD. This diversification could be particularly beneficial for manufacturers such as Dell, Lenovo, and Acer, who would gain a viable alternative to Qualcomm’s offerings.
The proposed SoC is anticipated to debut after the expiration of a presumed exclusivity agreement between Microsoft and Qualcomm regarding Windows on Arm devices, although the details of this deal have not been publicly confirmed. Additionally, a current patent dispute between Arm and Qualcomm may incentivize Microsoft and its partners to explore alternative hardware options, creating a ripe opportunity for Nvidia.
Nvidia’s history with Arm chips is deeper than many realize, with substantial experience gained from years of developing mobile, console, and set-top box technologies. Although the company’s existing Arm chips have not been updated in over seven years, Nvidia is reportedly supplying new chips for the highly anticipated Switch 2, underscoring its ongoing relevance in the gaming hardware space.
Financially, Nvidia is experiencing a boom, driven largely by the AI sector, positioning it as one of the most valuable companies globally. After successfully navigating the challenges posed by the crypto market downturn, Nvidia may be strategically looking to expand its offerings beyond GPUs and data centers. Venturing into the Arm SoC market could enable Nvidia to capitalize on new revenue streams by supplying millions of chips to original equipment manufacturers (OEMs).
As of now, none of this information has been independently verified, but it will certainly be worth monitoring the PC hardware landscape for significant changes in the coming years.