MediaTek’s AI-Capable SoCs to Power Next Gen Mid-Range Smartphones Across Africa

MediaTek is set to strengthen its foothold in Africa’s smartphone market with its latest generation of AI-capable system-on-chips (SoCs), designed to bring advanced performance and intelligence to mid-range smartphones.

The new chips, unveiled earlier this year, integrate AI processing units (APUs) that enable faster, more efficient on-device artificial intelligence applications. This includes features such as real-time language translation, camera scene recognition, voice assistants, and enhanced battery optimization. For African users, these capabilities could significantly improve how smartphones support everyday activities, from fintech apps to e-learning and entertainment.

Mid-range smartphones dominate Africa’s mobile landscape, where affordability and durability are key factors driving sales. By embedding AI power into these devices, MediaTek is addressing the region’s demand for smart yet cost-effective technology. Analysts say the move could position MediaTek-powered devices as strong competitors in markets where Qualcomm Snapdragon has traditionally held an edge.

The timing aligns with Africa’s growing appetite for 5G-enabled devices and the expansion of services that rely on high-speed connectivity. Smartphone manufacturers such as Tecno, Infinix, Oppo, and Xiaomi, many of which already use MediaTek chips, are expected to adopt these AI-driven SoCs in their upcoming models for the African market.

“AI is no longer a premium feature—it’s becoming essential,” a MediaTek spokesperson said. “Our mission is to make it accessible to everyone, not just high-end smartphone users.”

As digital adoption accelerates across Africa, the introduction of AI-capable mid-range devices could further democratize access to advanced mobile technologies, fueling innovation in mobile banking, e-commerce, health apps, and creative industries.