Key Takeaways
1. Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X85 modem-RF offers a groundbreaking bandwidth of 400 MHz with advanced 6x carrier aggregation technology.
2. It features impressive download speeds of up to 12.5 Gb/s and upload speeds of 3.7 Gb/s, surpassing its predecessor’s capabilities.
3. The modem is equipped with Qualcomm’s latest 5G AI processor, promising up to 30% improved inference speed and enhanced power efficiency.
4. It supports both mmWave and sub-6GHz 5G technologies, as well as satellite connectivity, targeting IoT systems, CPE, and smartphones.
5. Qualcomm is showcasing the Snapdragon X85 and the more affordable X82 at MWC 2025 in Barcelona.
Qualcomm has just announced its newest flagship 5G modem-RF, which is the first to offer a bandwidth of 400 megahertz (MHz). This is made possible by their advanced 6x carrier aggregation (CA) technology.
Features and Performance
The Snapdragon X85 comes with several impressive features, including Qualcomm Smart Transmit Plus technology, downlink CA, and 1024 QAM for sub-6GHz. These advancements are expected to deliver download speeds reaching up to 12.5 gigabits per second (Gb/s) and upload speeds of 3.7 Gb/s, an improvement from its predecessor’s 10 Gb/s and 3.5 Gb/s.
AI Integration and Efficiency
Equipped with Qualcomm’s latest 5G AI processor, the X85 promises generational speed improvements of up to 30% in inference. Their goal is to “smartly” enhance power efficiency and coverage while also lowering latency in this new modem.
Versatile Connectivity
The modem platform includes a new “converged” transceiver that supports both mmWave and sub-6GHz 5G technologies, in addition to modern satellite connectivity. Qualcomm aims for the Snapdragon X85 to meet the needs of industrial internet-of-things (IoT) systems, next-gen consumer premises equipment (CPE) for wireless broadband, and of course, smartphones.
Alternatively, the X82 has recently launched as a potentially more affordable option that offers similar features.
Showcasing Innovations
Currently, Qualcomm is showcasing both of these new solutions at MWC 2025, located at Booth (#3E10) in Hall 3 of Barcelona’s Fira Gran Via venue.