Qualcomm CEO Cristiano Amon announced that the company plans to unveil pre-commercial 6G devices by 2028, emphasizing the integration of context-aware intelligence and AI-driven innovations in future devices.

The upcoming 6G network aims to serve as a bridge between cloud and edge computing, powered by AI at the edge, enabling new consumer experiences and blending physical and digital worlds.

At Qualcomm's Snapdragon Summit 2025, marking its tenth anniversary, the company highlighted its strategic shift towards AI, edge computing, and 6G technology, focusing on transforming consumer electronics, automotive, and AI applications.

The company is developing a tiered AI model system that combines local edge-based models with large-scale cloud training to handle increasing data volumes securely and efficiently, supporting real-time AI responses.

Qualcomm’s advancements include new Snapdragon platforms like Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 and Snapdragon X2 Elite, which feature improved AI performance and efficiency, expanding AI beyond smartphones to PCs, wearables, and connected devices.

Qualcomm is actively exploring software integration opportunities, including discussions with Google about extending Android to desktops and innovating with features like Quick Charge 5+ for smarter battery management.

The company is also expanding into automotive technology through partnerships such as with HARMAN, focusing on AI-powered vehicle cockpits with the Snapdragon Cockpit Elite platform for immersive driving experiences.

Qualcomm's involvement in foundational research and standard-setting for 6G positions it as a leading player in the development of this next-generation technology, which will utilize terahertz spectrum for higher speeds.

Despite ongoing upgrades to 5G and the presence of some 3G networks, the industry is already looking ahead to 6G, with companies like Verizon participating in forums to develop new use cases for the technology.

While 6G consumer devices are expected closer to 2030, there is skepticism about the immediate benefits of 6G, as current AI devices already deliver substantial capabilities, and the true use cases remain uncertain.

Qualcomm envisions 6G supporting innovative form factors such as smart glasses, rings, and wearables, which will rely heavily on sensor data processing and advanced connectivity.

Qualcomm's focus on AI at the edge, combined with its strategic partnerships and innovations, aims to outpace rivals like Apple, Samsung, and Intel in the evolving landscape of intelligent, connected devices.