Apple •
6 cores •
2025
MediaTek Dimensity 8500 Ultra
Manufacturing Process
4nm
CPU Cores
8 cores
Instruction Set
ARMv9.2-A
Memory Type
LPDDR5X (9600MHz)
GPU
Mali-G720 MP8
5G Support
1
Basic Information
SOC Name
MediaTek Dimensity 8500 Ultra
Brand
MediaTek
Announcement Date
15 January 2026
Class
Premium
Manufacturing Process
4nm
Manufacturing
TSMC
CPU Specifications
CPU Architecture
1x 3.4 GHz – Cortex-A725
3x 3.2 GHz – Cortex-A725
4x 2.2 GHz – Cortex-A725
3x 3.2 GHz – Cortex-A725
4x 2.2 GHz – Cortex-A725
CPU Cores
8 Core
CPU Frequency
3400MHz
Instruction Set
ARMv9.2-A
Cache & NPU
Cache
11 MB
Cache Level
L3
SLC
5mb
NPU
MediaTek NPU 880
Memory
Memory Type
LPDDR5X
Memory Frequency
9600MHz
Memory Bus
4x 16 Bit
Max Bandwidth
76.8 Gb/s
Max Memory Size
24 GB
GPU
GPU
Mali-G720 MP8
GPU Architecture
Bifrost
Pipelines
8 Pipeline
Shading Units
512 Unit
Total Shaders
512 Unit
Vulkan Version
Version 1.3
OpenCL Version
Version 3.0
DirectX Version
Version 12
Storage & Display
Storage Type
UFS 4.1
Max Display Resolution
2960 x 1440
Max Camera Resolution
1x 320MP, 3x 32MP
Video & Audio
Video Capture
4K at 60FPS
Video Playback
4K at 60FPS
Video Codecs
H.264, H.265, AV1, VP9
Audio Codecs
AAC LC, FLAC, HE-AACv1, HE-AACv2, MP3
Connectivity
5G Support
1
WiFi
Wifi 7
Bluetooth
Bluetooth 5.3
Navigation Systems
GPS
Yes
GLONASS
Yes
Beidou
Yes
Galileo
Yes
QZSS
Yes
NAVIC
No
Benchmark Scores
AnTuTu 10
2,407,614
Related SOC
Displayed SoCs are selected based on performance class suitability and key benchmark metrics.
2,600,719
MediaTek •
8 cores •
2024
2,567,604
MediaTek Dimensity 8500 Ultra
MediaTek •
8 cores •
2026
2,407,614
Apple •
6 cores •
2025
2,300,150
MediaTek •
8 cores •
2025
2,102,937
Performance Analysis
The Dimensity 8500 Ultra’s all-big-core CPU layout with Cortex-A725 ensures strong single- and multi-core performance with a peak frequency of 3.4 GHz. In real-world usage, the SoC handles app launches, high-speed multitasking, and productivity with ease. Compared to typical mid-range SoCs, its performance is much closer to flagship experiences, making it ideal for users seeking premium responsiveness without flagship pricing.
Gaming Experience
Gaming performance on the 8500 Ultra benefits from the Mali-G720 MP8 GPU and improved memory bandwidth via LPDDR5X at 9600 MHz. It delivers stable frame rates in modern titles at high graphics settings while keeping thermal performance under control. Hardcore gamers may see limits in ultra-intensive scenarios, but for most mobile gaming needs this chip excels in delivering smooth and vibrant visuals.
Camera & Multimedia
The 8500 Ultra supports 4K video capture and playback, advanced camera ISP up to 320 MP, and widespread codec compatibility including AV1 and VP9. Streaming video, editing content, and high-resolution photography are handled smoothly. The high refresh rate and broad display support make multimedia consumption immersive and responsive for everyday content creation and entertainment.
Power Efficiency
Built on the TSMC 4 nm process, the Dimensity 8500 Ultra delivers solid power efficiency, translating into prolonged battery life during daily tasks and moderate gaming. Under sustained heavy usage, power draw increases but remains within acceptable levels for premium phones. Its thermal management balances performance with heat output effectively for continuous use.
AI / NPU
With MediaTek NPU 880, the 8500 Ultra enables on-device AI tasks like scene detection, intelligent image processing, and voice assistant functions. While not as powerful as flagship AI engines, it provides a noticeable uplift in everyday AI-driven features with efficient integration into camera and system enhancements.
Network & Connection
Connectivity includes advanced 5G modes, Wi-Fi 7 support, Bluetooth 5.3, and multiple GNSS systems. In practical use, network performance is strong for high-speed browsing, streaming, and navigation, offering stable and responsive connections across global cellular bands and modern wireless standards.
Positive Aspects
1. Strong Mid-to-High End Performance
With an all-Cortex-A725 eight-core design and higher clocks up to 3.4 GHz, Dimensity 8500 Ultra delivers outstanding sustained performance and excellent responsiveness for daily tasks and heavy workloads, standing out among premium chips below flagship class.
2. Enhanced GPU and Gaming Capability
The Mali-G720 MP8 GPU with eight execution units boosts graphics throughput, making it capable of smooth gameplay at higher settings and stable frame rates in many popular mobile games.
3. Balanced Power and Connectivity
Built on a 4 nm process, this SoC maintains respectable power efficiency while supporting modern connectivity like 5G, Wi-Fi 7, and advanced navigation, ensuring strong real-world networking performance.
Negative Aspects
1. Not Flagship Tier
While powerful, the 8500 Ultra is positioned below true flagship chips like Dimensity 9500s or Snapdragon 8 Elite series, lacking the highest peak CPU and GPU performance for ultra-demanding workloads.
2. Moderate AI Engine
The integrated NPU 880 offers competent on-device AI, but its performance doesn’t match dedicated flagship AI accelerators, limiting advanced real-time generative or multi-modal AI tasks.