Qualcomm Snapdragon X80: 5G modem with satellite communications and built-in AI

Qualcomm presented at MWC 2024 its new flagship 5G modem Snapdragon X80, which has artificial intelligence algorithms and support for satellite communications. The FastConnect 7900 wireless module was also announced with support for the latest standards, including Wi-Fi 7.

Snapdragon X80

Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X80 modem features a dedicated Tensor Accelerator AI processor that delivers high data transfer speeds, large mobile network coverage, high power efficiency and low latency. The 5G AI Suite Gen 3 platform is designed for reliable signal reception in the coverage area and high location accuracy. The manufacturer claims a 10% reduction in power consumption when connected to millimeter wave (mmWave) networks and an increase in location accuracy by 30%.

This means that already in 2024 the number of smartphones with the ability to connect to satellites will increase. Peak downlink speeds are up to 10 Gbps; download speeds should reach 3.5 Gbps with support for theoretical millimeter wave (mmWave, ten-carrier aggregation) and frequencies up to 6 GHz (five carriers). The X80 uses the same QTM565 mmWave antenna as the Snapdragon X75.

FastConnect 7900

Qualcomm also introduced the FastConnect 7900 wireless module, the first system to combine Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and UWB on a single 6nm chip. The module supports the latest Wi-Fi 7 standard with peak speeds of up to 5.8 Gbps, as well as Bluetooth 5.4 with spatial audio and ANT+.

Also supported:

• XPAN (Expanded Personal Area Network) technology, which allows you to switch from Bluetooth to Wi-Fi when reaching maximum range;
• Snapdragon Seamless technology, providing smooth switching between audio sources running different OS;
• HBS (High Band Simultical) standard for switching between devices and accessories with low latency.

Devices with the Qualcomm FastConnect 7900 module will begin to be released in the second half of 2024.