Pretty much every Android handset you can think of right now is powered by a Qualcomm chipset. MediaTek used to be a distant second, but the company is slowly but surely catching up. In fact, according to Counterpoint Research, the company estimates that MediaTek’s Dimensity 9500 could boost its chipset shipments.

Dimensity 9500 could boost MediaTek’s chipset shipments

According to the report, MediaTek is seeing an increased number of shipments in 2025. This is mostly made up of the Dimensity 9300 and 9400. However, a small but somewhat significant portion is estimated to belong to the Dimensity 9500. Note that the chipset hasn’t been announced yet.

However, based on the rumors, it is shaping up to be quite a beast . This could be one of the reasons why Counterpoint believes the Dimensity 9500 could contribute to chipset shipments. But don’t expect to see that many Dimensity 9500-powered phones in the US. Counterpoint says that China remains one of the most important markets for MediaTek.

This makes sense when you think about it. Qualcomm’s chipsets are getting more expensive with each new generation. The upcoming Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 is expected to cost more than its predecessor. So, if Chinese OEMs want to keep their costs as low as possible, they’ll have to turn to companies like MediaTek.

In the past, MediaTek was seen mostly as a cheap alternative to Qualcomm. However, the past few Dimensity 9000 generations have proven that MediaTek is more than just a cheap Qualcomm alternative.

Counterpoint also writes, “The company is also experiencing growth in India and Southeast Asia. The key reasons for Dimensity’s success include competitive pricing, better battery life and thermals compared to the competition, no support for millimeter wave needed in targeted markets, and strong AI and gaming capabilities.”

When is the Dimensity 9500 coming?

MediaTek hasn’t confirmed a launch date yet. However, the company could be taking the competition to Qualcomm this year. The latest rumors claim that MediaTek might host an event on September 22 . What’s the significance, you ask? That’s a day before the Qualcomm Snapdragon Summit. That is the event where Qualcomm will debut the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 .

While Qualcomm doesn’t need to worry about MediaTek snatching away customers like Samsung , the numbers do suggest that more phone makers are starting to look outside of Qualcomm for their chipset needs.