Qualcomm touts world-first enterprise processor with RFID

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Qualcomm Technologies has introduced the Dragonwing Q-6690, a mobile processor it says is the first of its kind to combine enterprise performance with built-in ultra-high frequency (UHF) RFID. The release follows the debut of the wider Dragonwing product line earlier this year, which was built for consumer and industrial markets.

The Dragonwing brand covers Qualcomm’s industrial IoT, networking, and cellular infrastructure solutions. The products are built to bring intelligence to devices at the edge, combining hardware and software AI features that support a range of business uses.

Built for enterprise devices powered by the Qualcomm processor

The processor can be used in handhelds, point-of-sale systems, kiosks, and other commercial equipment. Qualcomm said it gives manufacturers a flexible platform that can scale and be updated over time. The chip supports 5G, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6.0, and ultra-wideband.

By folding RFID capabilities directly into the processor, there is no need for separate RFID modules, which can help shrink device size and power use. The integration also supports security-focused uses like access control, asset tracking, and product authentication. These applications are especially relevant in retail, logistics, and industrial settings.

Custom features and upgrades

The Q-6690 comes with software-based feature packs that manufacturers can configure to suit their needs. These can cover areas like computing power, multimedia, cameras, or peripherals. Because the upgrades are delivered over the air, devices can be updated without requiring hardware redesigns. Qualcomm said the approach could decrease time to market, reduce certification hurdles, and extend the life of devices.

Art Miller, vice-president and head of retail at Qualcomm Technologies, said Qualcomm is currently working with retailers: “We are particularly excited about working with retailers today that need platforms that are not only powerful and connected, but also adaptable to evolving customer expectations, from smarter kiosks and handhelds to real-time inventory analytics and contactless experiences.”

Early adopters and industry response

Several hardware makers, including Zebra, Honeywell, Urovo, HMD Secure, Decathlon, and CipherLab, are planning to adopt the new Qualcomm processor. Devices using the platform are expected to arrive in the coming months.

Decathlon’s Hervé D’Halluin, leader of RFID and traceability, said, “Since 2004, we’ve fully used RFID technology in our entire value chain. By 2019, we had already achieved 100% RAIN RFID tagging of our products. The Dragonwing Q-6690, with its fully integrated RFID and AI capabilities, represents a game changer.”

Aileen Ryan, president and CEO of the RAIN Alliance, commented: “Qualcomm’s integration of […] RAIN technology into the Dragonwing Q-6690 empowers retailers and logistics companies to put RAIN-enabled devices into every employee’s hands, unlocking unprecedented productivity improvements and sales potential, from digital product passports and circularity to automated checkout, product authentication, asset tracking and inventory management.”

Fabio Napol, head of business process innovation at EssilorLuxottica, said: “At EssilorLuxottica, we believe that integrating RFID into commercial devices is a key catalyst for redefining how consumers interact with products, enabling richer, more personalised engagement while opening new frontiers of innovation. Building on our expertise in NFC-enabled applications, we view this advancement as unlocking even greater possibilities. It paves the way for scalable, stylish and design-forward solutions – particularly in categories like eyewear where aesthetics is essential.”

(Photo by Devin Spell)