Qualcomm has been at the forefront for as long as we remember smartphones being smart. It has revolutionized these devices, providing cutting-edge technology with their Snapdragon processors, powering the high-end as well as affordable Android devices.
After mastering the smartphone space, Qualcomm is now setting foot into the XR, VR, and connected automobile sectors, leveraging the increasing popularity of these technologies. As the global smartphone market’s growth plummets, this is the right time for Qualcomm to get into the space that has more potential now than ever.
Why step foot in XR and VR?
First things first, what is XR actually? Extended Reality, better known as XR, is an experience that takes one beyond ‘reality.’ It combines Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), and Mixed Reality (MR) to blend the physical world with the virtual world, providing an experience beyond space.
Qualcomm’s Snapdragon XR is already revolutionizing areas where technological integration has been of utmost benefit. From virtual classrooms to medical training simulations and gaming—this technology has grown. Qualcomm’s XR platforms that are already powering Meta’s Quest range are known for their low latency, great battery performance, and high efficiency.
This is not it, as Qualcomm is already in the process of bringing Snapdragon XR3 and AR1 to the table, promising it to be better than ever. Targeting ultra-low latency, efficient battery backup, and advanced AI capabilities, Qualcomm is ready to serve the next-gen devices with a technology that knows no limits.
Get, set, go in the automobile space
The increased popularity and growing demand for interactive automobile experiences is the main reason why Qualcomm is expanding what it is already doing. With its Snapdragon Ride and Snapdragon Cockpit, Qualcomm has been revolutionizing the reality that we live in.
Snapdragon Ride is a platform that uses sensors and cameras to enable advanced features such as self-parking, lane changing, and adaptive cruise control. This technology is already powering vehicles from Chinese brand XPeng and Indian brand TATA Motors.
Snapdragon Cockpit is an AI-powered solution tailored to the user’s specific needs. It combines infotainment systems with digital devices, creating an integrated system that works according to the preferences with high-quality audio settings. Think of it like a dashboard that plays the kind of music you prefer and connects your smart home setup to keep you posted at all times.
The road ahead for Qualcomm
Qualcomm is focusing on AI and future-proofing itself to better prepare for what is needed and what can be crafted. It is bridging the gap between what we imagine and what reality can look like.
While the developments are taking place at a fast pace, there are challenges present. Although AR and XR are on the rise, these are still niche markets. Similarly, the interactive automobile sector has hurdles, such as high pricing and lack of infrastructural support in many regions.
Qualcomm sees these challenges more like open doors for opportunities. They are positioning themselves as the tech masters rather than just smartphone chipmakers—and honestly, they are doing pretty great.
