Millimeter wave is seen as a key part of 5G given the massive capacity associated with the high-band spectrum. But, millimeter wave comes with a number of propagation challenges. Right now, major operators like Verizon and AT&T are tapping into millimeter wave frequencies to test out fixed wireless access to deliver ultra fast home internet and other services like pay TV. But what about millimeter wave for mobility?
“There has been some skepticism about the ability to get the antenna technology and RF front end functionality you need to make millimeter wave work into a smartphone form factor,” Matt Branda, Qualcomm’s director of technical market, said in an interview with RCR Wireless News. But, “This is a feasible technology to actually get into a smartphone.”
To help drive development of mobile millimeter wave solutions, Qualcomm today announced a prototype system, compatible with the 5G NR Release 15 specifications being developed by 3GPP, that is built into a smartphone form factor. The idea is to start testing real world mobile scenarios, particularly device and hand blocking.
“We want to signal to the OEMs,” Branda said, “That a smartphone form factor is possible. From a technology perspective, this is the next step in that direction–actually showing that front end in a smartphone form factor.”
Qualcomm is set to start using the prototype system soon in interoperability and over the air trials with network infrastructure vendors and operators.
“We are delivering on the promise of developing 5G NR mmWave technologies to enhance mobile broadband services,” Cristiano Amon, executive vice president, Qualcomm Technologies, Inc., and president, Qualcomm CDMA Technologies, said in a statement. “Our 5G NR mmWave prototype system is proving that sustained mobile broadband communications and smartphone form-factor devices are progressing for 2019 launches — another powerful testament to Qualcomm Technologies’ continued leadership in developing next generation wireless technologies that push the boundaries of what is possible.”
