Qualcomm Technologies has inaugurated its new Design Centre in Chennai after it was announced earlier this year. It has also introduced the Qualcomm 6G University Research India Program, aligning with the Indian Government’s Bharat 6G Vision and aimed at fostering academic research excellence and leadership in emerging 6G technologies.
Qualcomm Chennai Design Center Inauguration
In furtherance of its commitment to India’s digital advancement, Qualcomm inaugurated its Chennai Design Center, representing a significant investment of Rs. 177.27 crores.
Specializing in wireless connectivity solutions, the center will focus on innovations complementing Wi-Fi technologies and contribute to global 5G Cellular technology R&D.
It is expected to create employment opportunities for up to 1600 skilled professionals, aligning with the government’s ‘Make in India’ initiative.
Endorsement and Vision
The inauguration ceremony witnessed the presence of Cristiano Amon, President & CEO of Qualcomm Incorporated, and Shri. Ashwini Vaishnaw, Union Minister of Railways, Communications, and Electronics & Information Technology, Government of India.
Cristiano Amon emphasized the pivotal role of the Chennai Design Center in reaffirming Qualcomm’s commitment to India and expressed optimism about the growth opportunities the country offers, given its conducive environment for technological innovation and talent development.
6G University Research Program
This program, an extension of the existing university research initiative, provides support to selected professors from prestigious institutions like IITs and IISc for their research endeavors in crucial 6G technology areas.
The inaugural cohort comprises 17 scholars who will collectively receive approximately USD $1.02 million in funding over three years.
Program Phases and Activities
The program unfolds in two phases. It includes presentations on 6G by Qualcomm R&D leaders, as well as periodic workshops.
- Phase One, recently completed, involved soliciting research proposals from the chosen universities.
- Phase Two, spanning three years, will facilitate ongoing interaction among professors, students, and designated Qualcomm contacts.
Research Focus
From more than 40 submissions, 17 proposals were selected, categorized into different areas such as Physical Layer (PHY), Physical/Medium Access Control Layer (PHY/MAC), Medium Access Control Layer (MAC), Upper Layers, and Radio Frequency (RF).
Research topics range from the integration of AI/ML in 6G exploration to 6G Communications and Applications.
Qualcomm’s Support Initiatives in India
Apart from the 6G research program, Qualcomm has ongoing initiatives to support the wireless ecosystem in India. These include university grants, awards, fellowships, and support for startups through programs like the Qualcomm Design in India Challenge and the Qualcomm Semiconductor Mentorship program.
Speaking about the 6G University Research Program in India, Savi Soin, President of Qualcomm India, said:
Qualcomm remains steadfast in propelling India’s digital evolution, enhancing its innate technological prowess. As we embark on the 6G frontier, our 6G University Research Program will leverage Qualcomm Technologies’ resources and expertise in collaboration with leading academic institutions nationwide. Aligned with the Bharat 6G Vision, our aim is to unearth novel features and applications tailored for both Indian consumers and enterprises, while also catering to global markets.
Speaking about Qualcomm Chennai Design Center, Shri. Ashwini Vaishnaw, Union Minister of Railways, Communications and Electronics & Information Technology, Government of India, said,
India’s technological prowess continues to ascend, solidifying our position as a global leader in innovation. Our unwavering dedication to embracing digital advancement signifies our path toward a digitally empowered society. We are delighted to offer our support to Qualcomm, which has been instrumental in hastening India’s digital evolution.
Together, our aim is to connect millions of Indians through 5G connectivity. The inauguration of the new design center signifies a significant milestone, not only for the company but also for the opportunities it will create for our tech talent, further nurturing our innovation landscape.
Commenting about Qualcomm Chennai Design Center, Mahesh Moorthy, Vice President, Engineering and Qualcomm Chennai Design Center Head, said,
The new center will unlock growth opportunities for the local community. Tamil Nadu boasts a wealth of highly skilled tech professionals, and Chennai, being home to several multinational companies, offers a dynamic ecosystem.
We look forward to collaborating closely with our technology partners in this region. The center will drive our technological innovations, crafting state-of-the-art solutions for a digitally empowered India, perfectly aligning with the government’s ambitious vision of positioning India as a global tech superpower.