Semiconductor manufacturer MediaTek has announced MT6577, a new dual-core platform developed specifically for sub-$200 smartphones. It features a dual 1GHz ARM Cortex A9 processor, PowerVR Series5 SGX GPU from Imagination Technologies and MediaTek’s proven 3G/HSPA modem. It runs on the latest Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich) operating system. The company announced the MT6575 platform for low-mid range smartphones earlier this February that is currently shipping with major international brands such as Lenovo, TCL/Alcatel, and other Chinese OEMs.
With the new dual-core processor in the MT6577, there would be a 40% increase in application and browser performance compared to the single-core platform. This would also offer rich multimedia experiences, with an 8MP camera, up to 1080p video playback and the ability to support high-resolution displays up to 1280×720 resolution.
It is fully compatible with the previously released MT6575 which makes the hardware manufacturers easily adapt to the latest platform. The MT6577 dual-core platform is currently being incorporated into smartphones and are expected to ship in Q3 2012.