HiSilicon Kirin 980

HiSilicon Kirin 980: A Comprehensive Overview of Huawei's Flagship SoC

The HiSilicon Kirin 980, introduced in 2018, marked a significant leap in mobile processing technology for Huawei. As the first mobile SoC to be built on a 7nm process, it brought enhanced performance, efficiency, and capabilities to smartphones. In this article, we delve into the architecture, performance, integrated modules, and comparisons to understand the true impact of the Kirin 980 on the mobile industry.

1. Architecture and Manufacturing Process

Core Configuration

The Kirin 980 features a big.LITTLE architecture, which is a hybrid approach combining high-performance and power-efficient cores. Specifically, it includes:

- 2x Cortex-A76 cores at 2.6 GHz: These high-performance cores handle demanding tasks, such as gaming and heavy multitasking.

- 2x Cortex-A76 cores at 1.92 GHz: These cores provide a balance between performance and power consumption, suitable for everyday applications.

- 4x Cortex-A55 cores at 1.8 GHz: These energy-efficient cores are designed for lighter tasks, ensuring the device runs efficiently when performing simple operations.

This combination allows the Kirin 980 to dynamically allocate tasks to the most appropriate cores, optimizing performance while conserving battery life.

GPU Details

The Kirin 980 is equipped with a Mali-G76 MP10 GPU, which supports advanced graphics rendering and gaming performance. The GPU is designed to offer up to 46% improved performance and 178% better energy efficiency compared to its predecessor, the Kirin 970. This enhancement is crucial for modern mobile gaming and high-definition video playback, providing users with a smooth and visually stunning experience.

Process Technology

Being the first SoC to utilize TSMC’s 7nm process technology, the Kirin 980 benefits from a reduction in die size and an increase in transistor density. This results in enhanced performance capabilities and improved power efficiency, leading to longer battery life for devices using this chip.

2. Real-World Performance

Gaming

When it comes to gaming, the Kirin 980 excels. Titles such as PUBG Mobile and Asphalt 9 run smoothly at high settings, with minimal lag or frame drops. The powerful Cortex-A76 cores, combined with the Mali-G76 GPU, ensure that gamers enjoy a responsive and immersive experience. The GPU's support for Vulkan API further enhances graphics performance, allowing developers to create more visually impressive games.

Multimedia

The Kirin 980 supports 4K video playback and recording, making it a great choice for multimedia tasks. The integrated image signal processor (ISP) enhances image quality for photographs and videos, supporting features like HDR and AI-enhanced photography. Users can expect vibrant colors and sharp details, even in challenging lighting conditions.

AI Applications

Huawei has incorporated a dedicated Neural Processing Unit (NPU) within the Kirin 980, which significantly boosts its AI capabilities. This feature allows for real-time image recognition, improved photography through scene detection, and even smart resource management to optimize performance based on user habits. AI-driven features enhance user experience in various applications, from photography to voice recognition.

Energy Consumption and Thermal Management

Thanks to the 7nm process and the big.LITTLE architecture, the Kirin 980 offers impressive power efficiency. During intensive tasks, such as gaming or video editing, the SoC manages heat effectively, minimizing thermal throttling. This ensures that performance remains consistent without overheating, providing users with a stable experience.

3. Integrated Modules

Modem Capabilities

The Kirin 980 features an integrated modem that supports 4G LTE and is capable of reaching download speeds of up to 1.4 Gbps. This ensures that users can enjoy fast and reliable internet connectivity, whether for streaming content or downloading files. Although the Kirin 980 does not natively support 5G networks, Huawei's subsequent SoCs, such as the Kirin 990, introduced this capability.

Connectivity Features

The SoC supports Wi-Fi 802.11ac, Bluetooth 5.0, and various satellite navigation systems, including GPS, GLONASS, and BeiDou. The inclusion of Bluetooth 5.0 enhances connectivity with peripherals, allowing for faster data transfer and improved range.

4. Comparison with Competitors

Previous Generations

Compared to its predecessor, the Kirin 970, the Kirin 980 shows notable advancements. The jump to a 7nm process provides significant improvements in power efficiency and performance. The dual NPU design enhances AI capabilities, making it a more future-proof option for mobile devices.

Other SoCs in the Market

When compared to competitors like Qualcomm's Snapdragon 845 and Apple's A12 Bionic, the Kirin 980 holds its own. While the A12 Bionic offers superior single-core performance, the Kirin 980 provides a well-rounded package with efficient multi-core performance and integrated AI capabilities. The Snapdragon 845, while still a strong contender, falls short in AI processing when compared to the Kirin 980.

5. Use Case Scenarios

Gaming

For gamers, the Kirin 980 delivers an excellent experience, capable of handling the latest titles with ease. The combination of high-performance cores and advanced GPU ensures that games run smoothly, making it suitable for both casual and competitive gaming.

Everyday Tasks

For everyday users, the Kirin 980 provides a fluid experience for social media, browsing, and productivity apps. The efficiency of its cores allows for seamless multitasking, ensuring that users can switch between apps without noticeable lag.

Photography and Videography

The Kirin 980 shines in photography and videography, thanks to its advanced ISP and AI capabilities. Users can take advantage of smart scene detection and enhanced low-light performance, making it a great choice for photography enthusiasts.

6. Pros and Cons of the Kirin 980

Pros

- High Performance: The Kirin 980 offers excellent performance for gaming, multitasking, and multimedia tasks.

- AI Capabilities: The integrated NPU enhances various applications, providing smarter and more efficient processing.

- Energy Efficiency: The 7nm process and architecture design ensure longer battery life.

- Advanced Multimedia Support: Supports 4K video and superior photography features.

Cons

- Limited Future-Proofing: While powerful, the lack of native 5G support may limit its longevity as networks evolve.

- Software Optimization: Some users may experience inconsistency in app optimization, depending on the device and software version.

7. Practical Tips for Choosing a Smartphone with Kirin 980

When considering a smartphone powered by the Kirin 980, here are a few tips:

- Look for High RAM: Choose devices with at least 6GB of RAM for optimal multitasking performance.

- Check Software Updates: Ensure the manufacturer provides regular software updates to maintain performance and security.

- Consider Camera Features: If photography is important to you, look for devices that highlight camera capabilities, as they may leverage the Kirin 980’s advanced ISP.

- Assess Battery Life: Given the SoC's efficiency, look for devices with larger battery capacities to maximize usage time.

Common Devices Using Kirin 980

- Huawei Mate 20 Pro

- P30 and P30 Pro

- Honor View 20

8. Final Verdict

The HiSilicon Kirin 980 is a powerful and efficient mobile processor that caters to a wide range of users, from gamers to multimedia enthusiasts. Its advanced architecture, impressive performance, and AI capabilities make it a strong contender in the mobile SoC market. While it may not support 5G natively, it remains a solid choice for those seeking a well-rounded mobile experience.

In conclusion, the Kirin 980 is well-suited for users who prioritize performance, efficiency, and advanced features in their smartphones. Whether you're gaming, capturing stunning photos, or simply multitasking throughout your day, the Kirin 980 delivers a remarkable user experience, making it a worthy investment for any mobile user.