Viettel has become Qualcomm Technologies’ first global partner to join its Early Access Program for the 6G platform, giving the Vietnamese technology company early access to Qualcomm’s chipset platform and development tools before their commercial release. The agreement expands the companies’ collaboration beyond 5G to include 6G Research, artificial intelligence (AI), data centres and the development of technology products for global markets.
The partnership enables Viettel to begin 6G Research and product development after mastering 4G and 5G technologies over the past decade.
Early Access Program Supports 6G Research
Under the agreement, Viettel will gain early access to Qualcomm’s chipset platform and development tools, allowing it to develop products alongside Qualcomm as the platform is being built. According to Viettel, the arrangement is expected to shorten research timelines and enable the company to introduce 6G products soon after Qualcomm’s chipsets become commercially available.
Qualcomm’s Early Access Program is reserved for selected strategic partners, with Viettel becoming the first company worldwide to participate.
The companies also aim to complete the first pre-commercial 6G voice call by early 2029 using network infrastructure and telecommunications equipment researched, developed and manufactured by Viettel.
Partnership Expands Beyond 5G Development
The agreement broadens cooperation between the two companies beyond Open RAN-based 5G equipment development to include 6G Research, AI technologies and data centre initiatives.
In addition, Viettel and Qualcomm agreed to expand the international reach of Viettel’s 5G products across Southeast Asia, South Asia, Africa and Latin America. Qualcomm will help connect Viettel with mobile network operators and global partners, while Viettel will contribute its technology solutions, products and deployment expertise to support wider adoption of telecommunications equipment designed and manufactured in Vietnam.
Agreement Strengthens Vietnam’s Role in Future Networks
According to Viettel, Qualcomm has previously launched similar strategic technology programmes in innovation hubs such as the United States and South Korea. Viettel’s participation in the Early Access Program highlights Vietnam’s growing role in Qualcomm’s strategy for developing next-generation technologies.
Headquartered in San Diego, California, Qualcomm is one of the world’s leading telecommunications and wireless technology companies, with a market capitalisation of approximately $180 billion.