Qualcomm unveiled two unusual reference PCs

At the recent Snapdragon Summit 2025, Qualcomm surprised attendees by unveiling two new reference desktops based on the upcoming Snapdragon X2 Elite chips.

According to PCMag’s John Burek, who photographed one of the devices, the most unusual design was an ultra-thin, round computer that resembles a mug warmer or wireless charger. The mini-PC is less than half an inch thick and measures slightly larger than a tea saucer.

A mini PC is less than half an inch thick and slightly larger than a tea saucer.

The device has multiple USB-C ports and a headphone jack on the sides, and a ring of vents underneath, which Burek says is reminiscent of a Mac Mini.

The device was connected to a full-size display via USB-C and was powered by a Snapdragon X2 Elite processor in real time.

Solving the challenge of cooling such a thin body was one of Qualcomm’s key challenges. To do so, the company used Frore Systems’ AirJet technology. Instead of traditional fans, AirJet modules use thermoelectric materials to silently drive air through the heatsink.

The absence of moving parts avoids mechanical wear and noise, and allows for much thinner solutions. Qualcomm noted that AirJet is one of the cooling options, along with classic fans and completely fanless systems, that will be utilized depending on performance requirements.

AirJet is one of the cooling options, along with classic fans and completely fanless systems, that will be used depending on performance requirements.

A round mini-PC “plate” was displayed alongside another modular monoblock, demonstrating Qualcomm’s commitment to exploring new form factors beyond traditional laptops and tablets.

The concept demonstrates the potential to expand Snapdragon’s hardware segment into new device categories. While the design of this “plate-shaped” PC may remain a prototype, it has already attracted attention for its uniqueness and efficiency.