In the smartphone world, 2026 will witness a new phase of processor competition. MediaTek plans to introduce its two new processors, Dimensity 9500e and 8500, in the first month of the year. This move may raise the performance bar, especially in the middle-upper segment models of China-based manufacturers. Technology circles think that these two chips will offer a balanced structure not only in terms of speed but also efficiency. This picture may enable MediaTek to regain a remarkable position in the processor competition.
Dimensity 9500e is among the most ambitious processors the company has developed to date. Developed with TSMC’s 3nm N3E production process, this chip combines performance and energy efficiency. The processor’s speed values of up to 3.73GHz can make a difference, especially in games that require high processing power. This structure, based on the Cortex-X925 architecture, is supported by three Cortex-X4 and four Cortex-A720 cores. In addition to all this, a significant increase in multitasking performance is also aimed.
Dimensity 9500e offers a balanced structure with its powerful GPU and efficient architecture
On the graphics side, there is G925 MP12 GPU signed by Arm and this unit operates at a frequency of 1612MHz. This structure provides a smoother experience in visually intense games and video processing applications. In addition, thanks to the 3nm production process, thermal efficiency increases and energy consumption decreases significantly. This helps devices maintain performance continuity while extending battery life. However, it is of great importance that all these hardware advantages are supported by software optimization.
Dimensity 8500 is positioned as a processor that will compete in the more affordable segment but will not lag behind in terms of performance. This chip is produced with TSMC’s 4nm manufacturing process and features eight powerful cores built on ARM’s A725 architecture. The interesting point is that “large cores” are preferred in this structure. The fact that the main core can go up to 3.4GHz creates a significant performance difference compared to the previous generation Dimensity 8400. However, thanks to this architecture, it becomes possible to reach high speed values even in mid-segment devices.
On the graphics unit side, Mali-G720 GPU works and operates at a frequency of approximately 1.5GHz. This means more stable frame rates, especially in gaming performance. The AnTuTu score of approximately 2.2 million obtained in benchmark tests clearly demonstrates the performance potential of the Dimensity 8500. In addition, it is expected to make a difference with its new generation image processing and artificial intelligence-supported camera features. In light of all this, MediaTek wants to increase its competitiveness in the middle segment.
It is stated that both processors will be included in smartphones that will be introduced in the first months of 2026. It is said that these models will be equipped with large batteries and include special optimizations for battery performance. For users, this means more stable performance with longer usage time. However, it should be noted that the actual user experience will depend on manufacturer optimizations. Because although processor power is decisive, the balance on the software side affects the overall efficiency.
In addition, it seems that MediaTek focused not only on performance but also on the balance of efficiency and cost with these two processors. The technological advantage provided by 3nm and 4nm processes shows that competition will be shaped not only by speed but also by energy management. On the other hand, Qualcomm’s arrival on the scene with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 and 8 Gen 5 models in the same period could make 2025 a very active year. This table means that users will encounter more powerful options in different price ranges.
Regardless, the results MediaTek will achieve with these new processors will depend on the manufacturers’ approach. However, the expectation in the technology world is that these two chips will be rapidly adopted, especially by Chinese manufacturers. Because these chips offer an attractive balance in terms of both production costs and technical advantages. It is possible that this trend will be seen more clearly in the phones that will be introduced in the first quarter of 2026.