ASUS pairs Qualcomm's Snapdragon X2 Elite Extreme with a feather-light Zenbook A16 for premium performance

In a move that signals a growing confidence in ARM-based laptops, ASUS has equipped its new 16-inch Zenbook A16 with Qualcomm's latest Snapdragon X2 Elite Extreme. The collaboration brings a high-end, 18-core processor to a chassis that weighs just over a kilogram, promising a blend of power and portability that rivals traditional Intel-driven ultrabooks. The device's OLED panel, refreshed at a fluid rate, aims to deliver crisp visuals for both creative work and media consumption, while an integrated AI accelerator is positioned to handle on-device machine-learning tasks without draining the battery. Speaking to the broader market, the partnership underscores a shift toward unified silicon that can drive graphics, AI and connectivity from a single die, potentially reshaping expectations for future thin-and-light laptops. Early impressions suggest the Zenbook A16 could become a compelling option for professionals who need a large, vibrant screen without the weight of a workstation, while still enjoying the endurance needed for a full day of use.