Qualcomm, the US-based semiconductor giant, is setting its sights on India with a groundbreaking move: launching an entry-level 5G smartphone that’s easy on the pocket, with a price tag under $99 (around ₹8,200) by the year’s end. This bold initiative aims to usher 2G-3G users into the 5G era, enhancing connectivity and internet speeds for millions.

What Happened? In a strategic partnership with Reliance Jio, India’s leading telecom operator, and several original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), Qualcomm is on the verge of introducing this game-changer. The upcoming 5G device, boasting gigabit speeds thanks to a custom-made, budget-friendly processor, will be designed to work seamlessly on Jio’s 5G standalone network.

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Chris Patrick, a top exec at Qualcomm, shared at the Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2024 in Barcelona, that this venture is not just about launching a new product but about smoothing the transition from 4G to 5G for consumers and developers alike. This initiative underscores Qualcomm’s commitment to fostering a robust 5G ecosystem in India, leveraging its extensive R&D efforts in Hyderabad and Bengaluru.

Savi Soin, Qualcomm India’s president, emphasized the importance of collaboration with ecosystem partners like Jio and various OEMs to introduce this affordable 5G device, marking a significant milestone for the Indian market. The initiative could potentially extend 5G connectivity to approximately 2.8 billion people worldwide, according to GSMA data, highlighting Qualcomm’s vision of a more connected and innovative global community.

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