Quick Answer:
A system on chip (SoC), is the primary processor in a smartphone. It combines the CPU, GPU and modem on a single chip. The SoC controls the speed of your phone, its graphics, battery, and much more. Bangladeshi buyers should check the SoC of a latest smartphone before purchasing it.
What is a System on Chip (SoC)?
A single processor runs the entire phone. The chip contains the AI engine, modem and RAM controller. The old way of using individual components is replaced by the SoC. It increases performance and reduces energy consumption. It is essential for today's smartphones.
Why SoC Matters in Modern Smartphones?
It is the SoC that powers the performance of your smartphone. The SoC determines the speed at which apps are opened, how smoothly games run, and even how long you can last on your battery. Also, it handles camera processing, Internet speed and AI tasks such as face unlock. The SoC, after the display, is most crucial.
Components of a System on Chip
Each SoC includes:
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CPU handles apps and tasks
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GPU manages graphics and games
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ISP: Boosts camera quality
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NPU: Runs AI features
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Modem: Controls 4G/5G
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DSP: Enhances Audio and Video
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Memory controller: connects RAM and storage
The full package allows you to run everything on your mobile phone.
Types of SoC in Smartphones
Bangladeshi Smartphones come in three types:
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Flagship: Apple A17 Pro, Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
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Midrange : Dimensity 910, Snapdragon 7s Generation 2
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Budget: Helio G85, Snapdragon 680
Select based on what you need: gaming, cameras, or daily use.
Which Smartphone brands use System on Chip?
Samsung
Samsung began using SoCs with Exynos chip as of 2010. Earlier, the Galaxy S phones used Qualcomm or Broadcom. Exynos is a competitor to Snapdragon. Many Galaxy A, M and flagship S series models are powered by Exynos. Samsung uses Snapdragon for global models. Exynos 2400 is used in Korean models, while Snapdragon runs the Galaxy S24 sold in Bangladesh. Exynos has been improved over the years by Samsung. These new chips are optimized for 5G and provide better gaming as well as efficient multitasking. Samsung has also released SoC manufactured on 3nm technology for its flagship models. Exynos has improved battery life and reduced heat problems. In its newer SoCs, Samsung uses AMD RDNA graphics. For cost savings, Samsung's mid-range phones such as the Galaxy A14 and A24 in Bangladesh often use mediaTek. Samsung balances Exynos with Snapdragon to achieve the best global performance.
Apple
Apple started making its SoCs in 2010, using the A4 chip . This was launched with the iPhone 4 in 2010. Apple does not use Qualcomm and MediaTek for its iPhones. Bionic A-series chips have a reputation for high performance and battery efficiency. The 3nm Technology used in iPhone 15 Pro is the most advanced technology in 2025. Apple's SoC is equipped with a powerful CPU, GPU and (AI chip) for such tasks as photography, Siri and on-device translating. Apple's chips, tightly integrated into iOS, make the phone smoother and faster than Android phones in comparable price ranges. These chips are more expensive in Bangladesh but they give users a faster and longer lasting phone. Apple's SoC supports desktop gaming, as well as ProRes HD video recording. These features are highly valued by Bangladeshi content producers. Apple is leading the SoC race when it comes to power, thermal management, and efficiency. Apple's SoC is exclusive to iPhones. No other brands use it.
Xiaomi
Xiaomi started with Qualcomm Snapdragon in its early Redmi phones and Mi smartphones. They tried to make their own SoC in 2017 -- SurgeS1. It didn't go well commercially so they stuck with MediaTek and Snapdragon. In the Xiaomi 13 Series, Xiaomi is using Snapdragon 6 Gen 2 and dimensity 8200. For phones with a budget price tag like Redmi12C they use HelioG85. Xiaomi is a great choice for Bangladeshi customers because it balances power and price. Poco's phones are geared towards gaming and often use Snapdragon G chipsets. Xiaomi's MIUI/HyperOS software is optimised for these SoCs to deliver smooth performance and update. In some of its flagships, Xiaomi has battery management chips as well as image signal processors. Xiaomi 14 Ultra, for example, combines Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 and custom Surge C2 image signal processors (ISP) designed specifically for photography. Xiaomi's SoCs are ready for the future, with 5G and liquid cooling support in their mid-range smartphones sold in Bangladesh.
Realme
Realme launched its first phones in 2018 powered by Snapdragon. They wanted to provide high-performance phones at affordable prices. Most Realme smartphones in Bangladesh are powered by MediaTek Helio and Dimensity processors. Realme Narzo50, for example, uses Helio G96 - a gaming SoC at a low price. They use Snapdragon X10 Gen 2 in their flagship Realme GT Series or Dimension 8200. Realme does not make its own SoC, but instead relies on Qualcomm and MediaTek. Realme's UI is optimized for multitasking. They are primarily focused on budget gaming and performance in the camera. Realme phones' newer models support AI and 5G camera features thanks to powerful SoCs. Their SoC strategy allows users to enjoy top-tier photography and gaming in Bangladesh for between Rs20,000-30,000. Realme is a good balance between battery life and performance. To prevent overheating, they also use VC Cooling Tech on mid-range models.
Vivo
Vivo has entered Bangladeshi markets with MediaTek chips and Snapdragon. They do not produce their own SoC. Dimensity Chips are often found in Vivo's V, Y and flagship X Series phones. Snapdragon is also used in the flagship series. Vivo is focused on the camera, so their SoC selection supports AI features. The X90 used Dimension 9200 and a V2 custom imaging chip. Vivo uses SoC enhancements to improve low-light imaging and stabilization. Vivo V23/V27 in Bangladesh use Dimensity Chips with good thermal management and 5G support. Vivo is perfect for multitasking and photography enthusiasts. The UI has been optimized to run with the SoC and save battery.