Qualcomm, Ericsson Build 400MHz 6G Prototypes and Test AI-Enhanced Networks
Qualcomm expanded its 6G partnership with Ericsson to build and validate physical-layer prototypes, including a 400 MHz component carrier with 30 kHz subcarrier spacing under 3GPP Release 20 and initial tests in the 6-8 GHz band. The collaboration trials AI and AR to boost uplink capacity for agentic AI workloads.
1. Expanded Ericsson Collaboration
Qualcomm expanded its partnership with Ericsson to jointly develop key physical-layer radio technologies for 6G and validate them through lab prototypes, marking a shift from conceptual research to tangible hardware development ahead of future standardization.
2. Prototype Development
The teams built a 400 MHz component carrier with 30 kHz subcarrier spacing aligned to 3GPP Release 20 and conducted initial experiments in the 6-8 GHz centimeter-wave band, demonstrating potential improvements in cell-edge performance using four transmit-receive antennas.
3. AI-Native Network Trials
Beyond radio hardware, Qualcomm and Ericsson are trialing AI and AR applications with new devices and infrastructure designed for AI-native 6G networks, targeting higher uplink capacity and broad coverage to support emerging agentic AI workloads expected to surge by 2030.
4. Competitive and Financial Context
Qualcomm faces competition from Nokia and Broadcom in 6G R&D; its shares have fallen 7.4% over the past year, forward earnings estimates for fiscal 2026 and 2027 have been cut by up to 8.8%, and it currently holds a strong sell rating.