At MWC, Qualcomm is introducing a new modem that supports not only 5G, but also communication with satellites. It’s the second time Qualcomm has focused on satellite communications. A new WiFi 7 module will also be released.

Qualcomm is presenting a new modem at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona: the Snapdragon X80. The 5G modem is expected to be used in new phones from the second half of the year, as well as other devices such as routers or IoT devices. The design is pretty simple: This new 5G modem essentially does the same thing as other 5G modems, but more efficiently and better, according to Qualcomm.

There is a “5G AI Processor” in the modem so that Qualcomm can use two keywords at the same time. This module also appears to be responsible for expanding the mmWave range in stationary devices. A six-antenna architecture for smartphones and 6X carrier aggregation are also present.

Talk to a satellite

The most interesting addition is fully integrated support for NB-NTN satellite communications. This allows manufacturers to have their devices communicate with satellite networks, analogous to the system that Apple has been installing in its iPhones since 2022.

Qualcomm first tried to introduce satellite connectivity via Snapdragon Satellite in January last year. This was a service in collaboration with Iridium with which Qualcomm wanted to give Android smartphones the ability to send emergency messages, just like iPhones. In November 2023, Snapdragon Satellite was removed again. The phone manufacturers were not interested in detailed service with a partner.

With the Snapdragon X80, Qualcomm continues to build on this feedback. This second attempt to bring artificial lunar connections to Android is limited to supporting the technology. Qualcomm doesn’t interfere with the use of the feature: it’s up to phone makers to reach agreements with parties like Iridium if they wish. This should also provide more clarity on the price associated with alien text messaging.

Wireless Internet access

Qualcomm is also launching the FastConnect 7900. This is a wireless communication module that supports WiFi 7 along with Bluetooth on the same chip. Qualcomm reports that the FastConnect 7900 is optimized by AI, in keeping with the unwritten rule in tech that you can’t bring products to market without saying AI. There is a complete lack of explanation about what this means and does not seem to be important.