Qualcomm debuts 5G data connection with the Snapdragon X50 5G modem

A year ago Qualcomm announced that it was developing its first 5G-capable mobile modem, Snapdragon X50. And today the chip maker announced that it has completed the first successful test of Snapdragon X50 5G modem.

Qualcomm demoed the 5G technology on a 5G modem chipset for mobile devices in Qualcomm's Technologies laboratories in San Diego using several 100MHz carriers; Qualcomm's SDR051 mmWave RF transceiver integrated circuit (IC); and Keysight Technologies' new 5G Protocol R&D Toolset, and UXM 5G wireless Test Platform.

The Snapdragon X50 modem was able to achieve gigabit speeds and a data connection in the 28GHz mmWave rado frequency band, driving a new generation of cellular technology forward while accelerating the delivery of 5G NR enabled mobile devices to consumers.

In addition Qualcomm  previewed its first 5G smartphone reference design to help phone makers test and optimize 5G technology to use on future 5G-compatible phones.

Qualcomm says Snapdragon X50 5G NR modem family is expected to support commercial launches of 5G smartphones and networks in the first half of 2019.