Foundation of Qualcomm
Qualcomm was founded in 1985 by Irwin Jacobs and six other co-founders in San Diego, California. The company started with a focus on satellite communications and digital wireless telecommunication products.
1985
1989
Introduction of CDMA Technology
Qualcomm introduced Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) technology, which became a pivotal advancement in wireless communications. CDMA later became a standard for mobile communications worldwide.
1991
First CDMA Call
Qualcomm successfully made the first CDMA phone call, demonstrating the practicality and efficiency of the technology for mobile communications.
1995
Commercial Launch of CDMA
CDMA technology was commercially launched, revolutionizing the mobile telecommunications industry by offering better voice quality and increased capacity over analog systems.
1999
Introduction of Snapdragon Processors
Qualcomm introduced the Snapdragon series of mobile processors, which became a cornerstone of the company’s product offerings, powering a wide range of smartphones and tablets.
2000
Formation of Qualcomm Ventures
Qualcomm Ventures was established to invest in innovative startups in the wireless ecosystem, fostering innovation and growth in the industry.
2006
Acquisition of Flarion Technologies
Qualcomm acquired Flarion Technologies, a pioneer in Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplex Access (OFDMA) technology, which played a key role in the development of 4G LTE.
2007
Introduction of Gobi Modem
Qualcomm launched the Gobi modem, a multi-mode wireless chipset that enabled global connectivity for laptops and other mobile devices.
2010
Expansion into Mobile Computing
Qualcomm expanded its Snapdragon processors into the mobile computing market, providing high-performance solutions for smartphones, tablets, and other mobile devices.
2013
Launch of Snapdragon 800 Series
Qualcomm launched the Snapdragon 800 series, offering significant improvements in performance, power efficiency, and connectivity for high-end smartphones and tablets.
2015
Introduction of 5G NR Technology
Qualcomm introduced 5G New Radio (NR) technology, laying the groundwork for the next generation of mobile networks with faster speeds and lower latency.
2016
Acquisition of NXP Semiconductors
Qualcomm announced its intention to acquire NXP Semiconductors, aiming to expand its footprint in the automotive and Internet of Things (IoT) markets.
2018
Launch of Snapdragon 855
Qualcomm launched the Snapdragon 855 processor, featuring advanced AI capabilities, 5G support, and enhanced performance for flagship smartphones.
2019
Commercialization of 5G Technology
Qualcomm played a crucial role in the commercialization of 5G technology, with its Snapdragon X50 modem being used in the first wave of 5G-enabled devices.
2020
Introduction of Snapdragon 888
Qualcomm introduced the Snapdragon 888 processor, offering significant advancements in AI, gaming, and camera technologies for premium smartphones.
2022
Launch of Snapdragon 8 Gen 1
Qualcomm launched the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1, the latest in its flagship series, featuring enhanced AI capabilities, improved performance, and cutting-edge connectivity features.
2023
Expansion into Automotive Sector
Qualcomm expanded its presence in the automotive sector with the introduction of the Snapdragon Ride platform, aimed at advancing autonomous driving technologies.
2024
Advancements in 5G and Beyond
Qualcomm continued to push the boundaries of wireless technology with advancements in 5G and research into 6G, aiming to revolutionize connectivity and communication.
