Qualcomm is setting the stage for faster, smarter wireless tech in 2026 with two major announcements: the X105 5G Modem-RF and the FastConnect 8800 Wi‑Fi 8 chip. Both are designed with AI-powered features to boost real-world performance while keeping power use in check—exactly what users want from next-generation smartphones and PCs.
Qualcomm X105 5G Modem-RF brings satellite connectivity and more accurate location tracking
The Qualcomm X105 5G Modem-RF introduces a new round of upgrades aimed at improving coverage, efficiency, and location accuracy. At its core is a 5th-generation 5G AI processor that includes on-modem Agentic AI, built to help optimize how the modem behaves in different network conditions. It also includes a new RF transceiver and a next-generation RF front-end to support better overall connectivity.
Two features stand out as the most noticeable upgrades for everyday users:
1) 5G NR-NTN satellite communication
With 5G NR-NTN support, devices using the X105 can connect through satellite communications for off-grid use. That opens the door to video, data, voice, and messaging even when traditional cellular networks aren’t available—useful for remote travel, emergencies, and areas with limited coverage.
2) Quad-frequency GNSS with multi-constellation support
Qualcomm is also introducing its first modem with quad-frequency GNSS and multi-constellation support. In practical terms, the X105 can tap into all four major global navigation satellite systems—GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, and BeiDou—to improve positional accuracy and reduce latency. Qualcomm says this approach can also cut power consumption by up to 25%, meaning faster, more precise location services without draining the battery.
FastConnect 8800 aims to deliver the fastest and longest-range device Wi‑Fi
Alongside the X105, Qualcomm revealed the FastConnect 8800, a new connectivity chip built to handle Wi‑Fi and Bluetooth for upcoming smartphones and PCs. The company is positioning it as the fastest and longest-range device Wi‑Fi solution yet.
Key performance claims include:
– Peak Wi‑Fi speed of up to 11.6 Gbps (Wi‑Fi 8)
– Bluetooth peak speed of 7.5 Mbps (Bluetooth 7.0)
– Up to 2x the speed and up to 3x longer gigabit range compared to previous solutions
Built on a 6 nm process, FastConnect 8800 combines multiple wireless technologies into a single chip: Wi‑Fi 8, Bluetooth 7.0, Ultra-Wideband (UWB), and Thread. This all-in-one approach is designed to improve efficiency and make premium connectivity features more common across device categories.
Smarter nearby-device experiences with Proximity AI
FastConnect 8800 also adds Proximity AI paired with Wi‑Fi Ranging, UWB, and Bluetooth Channel Sounding. The goal is to make it easier—and more reliable—to connect to and locate nearby devices such as earbuds, smart tags, and even other phones. In everyday use, that could mean faster pairing, improved discovery, and more accurate “find my device” style experiences across compatible accessories.
Qualcomm also noted its plan to bring Wi‑Fi 8 to more users at scale through Qualcomm Dragonwing, signaling that this next generation of wireless performance won’t be limited to a small number of flagship products.
With satellite-ready 5G, more power-efficient and accurate GPS alternatives, and a Wi‑Fi 8 chip focused on speed and range, Qualcomm’s new X105 and FastConnect 8800 look designed to make 2026 devices noticeably better at staying connected—wherever you are.
