Qualcomm has launched Snapdragon X60 5G modem - the third generation of modem for the next-gen wireless technology for digital cellular networks. It follows the Snapdragon X50 Modem-RF System and the X55 5G modem that helped networks to launch 5G services using mmWave and sub-6 GHz spectrum, and accelerate 5G rollout and expansion, respectively. As of early 2020, over 45 operators have launched 5G services and more than 40 OEMs are introducing devices.
Qualcomm says that the third-generation solution is designed to lift the performance floor, helping more users to soon get faster 5G. The feature-set of the modem is designed to provide operators the flexibility to maximise the spectrum resources available to them. This essentially means that operators can utilise a mix of frequency bands (mmWave, sub-6 GHz including low bands), band types (5G FDD and TDD), and deployment modes (SA and NSA) to achieve an optimal combination of high-speed and low-latency network coverage.
The solution is made by a 5nm process node which means that chip packs higher power efficiency into a smaller footprint. It supports 5G TDD-TDD sub-6 carrier aggregation that allows SA networks to double peak speeds as compared to the Snapdragon X55. There is a new Qualcomm QTM535 mmWave antenna module which is smaller than the previous generation. It will also allow smartphone manufacturers to make new mmWave smartphone designs.
‘5G adoption and growth is poised to accelerate in 2020. The launch of Snapdragon X60 fuels this acceleration and expansion by allowing more networks to attain higher 5G speeds with available spectrum resources. Customer sampling for Snapdragon X60 is expected to begin in the first quarter of 2020. 5G smartphones featuring Snapdragon X60 are expected to launch in early 2021,’ the company said.
