Qualcomm Applied sciences has launched the Dragonwing Q-6690, a cell processor it says is the primary of its type to mix enterprise efficiency with built-in ultra-high frequency (UHF) RFID. The discharge follows the debut of the broader Dragonwing product line earlier this yr, which was constructed for client and industrial markets.
The Dragonwing model covers Qualcomm’s industrial IoT, networking, and mobile infrastructure options. The merchandise are constructed to convey intelligence to gadgets on the edge, combining {hardware} and software program AI options that help a spread of enterprise makes use of.
Constructed for enterprise gadgets powered by the Qualcomm processor
The processor can be utilized in handhelds, point-of-sale techniques, kiosks, and different business gear. Qualcomm mentioned it offers producers a versatile platform that may scale and be up to date over time. The chip helps 5G, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6.0, and ultra-wideband.
By folding RFID capabilities instantly into the processor, there is no such thing as a want for separate RFID modules, which may also help shrink gadget dimension and energy use. The combination additionally helps security-focused makes use of like entry management, asset monitoring, and product authentication. These purposes are particularly related in retail, logistics, and industrial settings.
Customized options and upgrades
The Q-6690 comes with software-based function packs that producers can configure to go well with their wants. These can cowl areas like computing energy, multimedia, cameras, or peripherals. As a result of the upgrades are delivered over the air, gadgets might be up to date with out requiring {hardware} redesigns. Qualcomm mentioned the strategy may lower time to market, cut back certification hurdles, and prolong the lifetime of gadgets.
Artwork Miller, vice-president and head of retail at Qualcomm Applied sciences, mentioned Qualcomm is presently working with retailers: “We’re significantly enthusiastic about working with retailers at the moment that want platforms that aren’t solely highly effective and related, but in addition adaptable to evolving buyer expectations, from smarter kiosks and handhelds to real-time stock analytics and contactless experiences.”
Early adopters and business response
A number of {hardware} makers, together with Zebra, Honeywell, Urovo, HMD Safe, Decathlon, and CipherLab, are planning to undertake the brand new Qualcomm processor. Gadgets utilizing the platform are anticipated to reach within the coming months.
Decathlon’s Hervé D’Halluin, chief of RFID and traceability, mentioned, “Since 2004, we’ve totally used RFID know-how in our complete worth chain. By 2019, we had already achieved 100% RAIN RFID tagging of our merchandise. The Dragonwing Q-6690, with its totally built-in RFID and AI capabilities, represents a recreation changer.”
Aileen Ryan, president and CEO of the RAIN Alliance, commented: “Qualcomm’s integration of […] RAIN know-how into the Dragonwing Q-6690 empowers retailers and logistics firms to place RAIN-enabled gadgets into each worker’s arms, unlocking unprecedented productiveness enhancements and gross sales potential, from digital product passports and circularity to automated checkout, product authentication, asset monitoring and stock administration.”
Fabio Napol, head of enterprise course of innovation at EssilorLuxottica, mentioned: “At EssilorLuxottica, we imagine that integrating RFID into business gadgets is a key catalyst for redefining how customers work together with merchandise, enabling richer, extra personalised engagement whereas opening new frontiers of innovation. Constructing on our experience in NFC-enabled purposes, we view this development as unlocking even better prospects. It paves the best way for scalable, fashionable and design-forward options – significantly in classes like eyewear the place aesthetics is important.”
(Photograph by Devin Spell)
See additionally: Samsung nears XR headset launch to problem Apple Imaginative and prescient Professional


Need to study concerning the IoT from business leaders? Try IoT Tech Expo going down in Amsterdam, California, and London. The great occasion is co-located with different main occasions together with Cyber Safety & Cloud Expo, AI & Large Knowledge Expo, Clever Automation Convention, Edge Computing Expo, and Digital Transformation Week.
Discover different upcoming enterprise know-how occasions and webinars powered by TechForge right here.