Qualcomm, Aramco Digital to develop AI-enabled 5G industrial smartphone

Qualcomm Technologies and Aramco Digital will collaborate to develop the world’s first AI-enabled industrial 5G smartphone with native support for the 450MHz spectrum, aimed at advancing industrial connectivity and digital transformation.

Revealed at LEAP 2025, the new industrial smartphone will enhance connectivity for 5G IoT devices, edge computing, and industrial applications, initially targeting advanced solutions for Aramco, one of the world’s leading integrated energy and chemicals companies.

The devices will be powered by Qualcomm’s QCM8550 and QCM6490 processors, which offer native 5G support in the 450MHz spectrum, providing improved communication and data transfer capabilities for industrial environments.

Aramco Digital-Qualcomm Technologies collab to prioritise innovation

“At Aramco Digital, we are committed to pushing the boundaries of technological innovation. This collaboration with Qualcomm Technologies, introducing the world’s first AI-enabled industrial smartphone with 450MHz support, represents a significant milestone in our journey to empower industries with next-generation connectivity,” said Eid Alharbi, connectivity president at Aramco Digital.

“By utilising cutting-edge 5G and AI technologies, we are enabling smarter, more sustainable industry that aligns with the kingdom’s Vision 2030 and beyond, driving industrial transformation not only within Saudi Arabia but across the globe,” Alharbi added.

Nakul Duggal, group GM at Qualcomm Technologies, highlighted the impact of advanced connectivity on the industrial sector. “The industrial sector is being transformed by advanced technologies, and our industrial smartphones with native support for 450MHz are another vital component in enabling industries to become more connected, efficient, safe, and sustainable.”

“Qualcomm Technologies is excited to collaborate with Aramco Digital to help them develop innovative solutions in Saudi Arabia, supporting the kingdom’s industrial transformation in alignment with their Vision 2030,” he added.

The collaboration follows previous deployments by Qualcomm and Aramco Digital, including Aramco’s first GenAI industrial IoT solutions, which have improved safety, efficiency, and sustainability at company sites.

The new industrial smartphones will further expand access to these applications.

Qualcomm’s 450MHz processors and the industrial smartphone prototype are on display at Aramco Digital’s stand at LEAP 2025.