Qualcomm CEO Cristiano Amon Plans Affordable 5G Devices for India

During an interview, Cristiano Amon, the President and CEO of Qualcomm Inc, outlined an ambitious vision for the future of technology in India. This vision spans from expanding 5G networks to introducing generative artificial intelligence (Gen-AI) and semiconductor manufacturing. Amon underscored the importance of innovation and collaboration, highlighting Qualcomm's significant contribution to shaping India's technological landscape.

Amon underscored the significance of 5G technology in transforming mobile connectivity throughout India. Acknowledging the widespread use of high-end 5G devices, he emphasized Qualcomm's dedication to ensuring that this revolutionary technology becomes accessible to all consumers. "We want to see 5G coverage continue to expand in India; we want to see a lot of 5G services. 5G is the only technology that can support high speeds and unlimited data rates for mobile consumers. You see a lot of 5G phones right now, but they are premium. They are high-tier phones, so a majority of people buy 4G phones. We want everybody to experience 5G and so we see two vectors to enable that".

"One is that 5G networks are becoming more modern and the opportunity exists for the operators in India to invest in what we call a standalone (SA) network. Once you do that, you enable the opportunity to bring some of those 5G devices at very attractive price points and that is what we are working on. We are announcing a chipset shortly and we think we can build with our ecosystem of partners, devices at those price points as early as the second half of this year”, Amon stated.

Expanding on Qualcomm's vision for the future, Amon introduced the concept of generative artificial intelligence (Gen-AI) and its profound impact on human-device interaction. Envisioning AI agents embedded within smartphones, he highlighted the potential for predictive capabilities to enhance user experiences. From real-time language translation to innovative photography features, Amon foresees Gen-AI ushering in a new era where devices seamlessly integrate with daily life, transcending the limitations of traditional app-centric models.

Being the largest fabless company worldwide, Qualcomm stands ready to exert a crucial influence on India's semiconductor ecosystem. Amon stressed the company's extensive investment in India, spanning more than a decade of cutting-edge research and chip design. With intentions to broaden its footprint, Qualcomm aims to bolster India's endeavors in building a robust and geographically diversified supply chain through collaboration with Indian manufacturers and nurturing prospects in the semiconductor sector, Qualcomm endeavors to strengthen its role as a significant catalyst for India's technological advancement.

Apart from mobile and semiconductor technologies, Amon emphasized Qualcomm's initiatives in automotive connectivity. With a substantial pipeline of contracted projects and anticipated revenues, Qualcomm seeks to transform the driving experience in India. Ranging from cloud connectivity to enhancements in digital cockpits, Amon detailed Qualcomm's objective of incorporating Gen-AI into automotive platforms, facilitating seamless interaction between drivers and their vehicles. Amon reaffirmed Qualcomm's dedication to empowering Indian consumers with connected experiences. From widespread 5G coverage to immersive digital cockpit environments, Qualcomm envisions a future where technology seamlessly merges with everyday life.