The HTC Thunderbolt went on sale in the US recently, and it features a 1GHz processor, which has been overclocked to a massive 1.8GHz by Derek Rodriguez, with a kernel he put together which enables the Thunderbolt to be overclocked.
Impressive Performance Results
The RealBeesley ran the kernel through Quadrant, and the results turned out to be pretty impressive. Quadrant is a benchmarking tool that measures the performance of Android devices, and the overclocked HTC Thunderbolt showed remarkable scores. You can see the results in the photo below.
The kernel hasn’t been released as yet, but 1.8GHz is a pretty impressive speed. Derek Rodriguez points out that you wouldn’t want to run the Thunderbolt at 1.8GHz all the time, stating, “you think I’d really let my phone sit at that?”. This suggests that while the overclocking demonstrates the potential of the device, it may not be practical for everyday use due to potential overheating and battery drain issues.
Understanding Overclocking
Overclocking is the process of increasing the clock speed of a processor beyond the manufacturer’s specifications. This can lead to significant performance improvements, but it also comes with risks. For instance, running a processor at higher speeds generates more heat, which can lead to thermal throttling or even permanent damage if not managed properly. Additionally, overclocking can reduce the lifespan of the processor and other components due to the increased electrical stress.
In the case of the HTC Thunderbolt, the overclocking to 1.8GHz showcases the capabilities of the Snapdragon processor used in the device. However, it’s important to note that such modifications typically void warranties and can lead to instability in the system. Enthusiasts who engage in overclocking often use custom cooling solutions and are prepared to troubleshoot any issues that arise.
You can find out more details of how the Thunderbolt was overclocked to 1.8GHz over at Android Police. This article provides a deeper dive into the technical aspects of the overclocking process and the specific modifications made to achieve such high speeds.
For those interested in the broader implications of smartphone performance, take a look at our featured article on Android vs iPhone to see which smartphone and mobile platform is best for you. This comparison covers various aspects such as hardware capabilities, software ecosystems, and user experiences, helping you make an informed decision based on your needs and preferences.
In conclusion, while the overclocked HTC Thunderbolt demonstrates the impressive potential of modern smartphone processors, it also highlights the importance of balancing performance with practicality. Overclocking can provide a significant boost in speed, but it requires careful consideration of the associated risks and trade-offs.
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