Qualcomm shows Snapdragon X65 modem that can handle download speeds of up to 10Gbit/s

Qualcomm has introduced the X65, a modem made on a 4nm process that supports faster download speeds than its predecessor. The modem does this by placing more powerful antennas and supporting more mmWave frequencies.

The Snapdragon X65 modem can achieve speeds of up to 10Gbit/s on both standalone and non-standalone networks, according to Qualcomm. The modem’s predecessor, the Snapdragon X60, has a maximum download speed of 7.5Gbit/s. Qualcomm does not write about the maximum upload speed; with the X60 this was 3Gbit/s.

Compared to its predecessor, the X65 is made on a smaller 4nm process, which combined with the Release 16 standard from 3GPP should ensure an improved battery life. In addition to the X65 modem, Qualcomm is announcing the QTM545 antenna module that can be used with the X65. This new antenna module is the same size as its predecessor, but can transmit more powerful signals and supports more frequencies, including the 41GHz band.

Qualcomm also says it will use artificial intelligence with the new modem to properly tune the antennas. This should also provide improved battery life and better range. The AI ​​would also help recognize death grips when the user blocks a phone’s antennas with his or her hand.

With the new modem, Qualcomm says it is not only aiming for premium smartphones, but the company also wants to use the modem for more applications, such as PCs and industrial IoT applications. Therefore, according to Qualcomm, the X65 platform is software upgradeable, so that it could receive new functions with updates. In addition to the Snapdragon X65, Qualcomm also announced a Snapdragon X62 modem, a cheaper variant with a maximum download speed of 4.4Gbit/s. Both modems are now supplied to customers as samples. The first devices with these new modems are expected to arrive at the end of 2021.

Snapdragon X65 Snapdragon X60

5G spectrum

5G modes

5G mmWave Specifications

5G sub-6GHz specifications

5G peak download speed

5G peak upload speed

Production process