Qualcomm Unveils Next-Gen 5G Modem with Enhanced AI Capabilities at MWC 2025

At the Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2025, Qualcomm introduced its latest innovation, the X85 modem, which represents the eighth generation of its 5G modem-RF platform. This modem is primarily designed for integration into smartphones, tablets, and laptops, enhancing connectivity speed and efficiency.

The X85 modem boasts unprecedented download speeds exceeding 10 Gbit/s, with Qualcomm claiming a maximum potential of 12.5 Gbit/s under optimal conditions. Furthermore, the upload speeds have also seen an improvement, reaching up to 3.7 Gbit/s, compared to the Snapdragon X80, which offered 3.5 Gbit/s for uploads and 10 Gbit/s for downloads. Unlike its predecessor, which prioritized additional features and efficiency without increasing speed, the X85 focuses on significantly boosting data transmission rates.

In terms of technology, the X85 supports up to six-fold Carrier Aggregation (6CA) and six receiver antennas (6Rx), enabling flexible bundling of various frequency blocks to achieve high data rates. Additionally, the bandwidth for maximum carrier aggregation in the downlink is now 400 MHz, while the uplink remains capped at four-fold Carrier Aggregation with a bandwidth of 200 MHz.

Qualcomm also emphasizes a performance boost in its integrated AI accelerator within the modem platform, enabling processing tasks to be executed up to 30% faster than with the X80. This improvement is expected to enhance connection quality and reduce latency, especially in dual-SIM operations.

Maintaining compatibility with all mobile network generations from GSM to 5G Advanced (3GPP Release 18), the X85 supports all global frequency bands ranging from 0.6 to 41 GHz. This ensures compatibility with both Sub-6 GHz and mmWave networks, which are particularly significant in North America. Moreover, the X85 can transmit and receive data outside terrestrial mobile networks, utilizing the Narrowband Non-Terrestrial Network (NB-NTN) for services like emergency calls and messaging.

Interestingly, Qualcomm has omitted references to its Snapdragon Satellite brand, yet the modem still allows for location services without GPS or similar satellite systems, provided a 5G network is accessible.

The X85 modem is not only poised for consumer devices but also has potential applications in railway infrastructure. Qualcomm highlights that this modem is the first to support the Future Railway Mobile Communication System (FRMCS), designed to enhance communication between railway infrastructure and vehicles, providing superior reliability and speed compared to GSM-R.

Additionally, the X85 is set to be utilized in stationary devices requiring mobile internet connections, such as cellular routers. Qualcomm has unveiled the Dragonwing Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) Gen 4 Elite Platform, which leverages the capabilities of the X85 modem. This platform aims to distribute fast 5G internet over Wi-Fi or Ethernet in homes, offices, and other locations, utilizing a robust AI processor.

The Dragonwing FWA Gen 4 Elite Platform operates by combining the modem's functionality with a Wi-Fi module. It features automatic rejection of poor-quality connections and claims an extended range of up to 14 kilometers in mmWave networks, although specific details on this performance are limited. The integrated AI capabilities also cover areas such as enterprise security, automation, and remote maintenance, supported by a Hexagon co-processor with a performance rating of up to 40 TOPS.

This innovative platform supports Wi-Fi generations from Wi-Fi 4 to Wi-Fi 7, accommodating multiple frequency bands and providing advanced security features. Users can also opt for wired connections through dual 10-Gbit ports. The software platform is adaptable, supporting OpenWRT, prplOS, and RDK-B.

Qualcomm plans to consolidate its mobile and networking products under the Dragonwing brand, although modems will remain under the Snapdragon name. While the timeline for the release of devices featuring the X85 remains undisclosed, Qualcomm confirms that it has already begun shipping the necessary chips.