Qualcomm adds UHF RFID to mobile processor

Qualcomm has announced Dragonwing  Q-6690  claimed to be the  first enterprise mobile processor to feature integrated UHF RFID capabilities.

The processor has built-in 5G, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6.0, and UWB, facilitating advanced proximity-aware experiences and robust global connectivity.

Its architecture supports form factors from ruggedized handhelds to retail POS systems and smart kiosks, providing OEMs and ODMs with a scalable, upgrade-ready platform and software-configurable feature packs for over-the-air updates.

The processor enables edge devices across retail, commercial, and industrial sectors, enabling smarter, proximity-aware interactions through its combination of integrated RFID, AI, and advanced connectivity.

OEMs incuding  Zebra, Honeywell, Urovo, HMD Secure, and CipherLab are  integrating this platform, with commercial devices anticipated soon, validating its market readiness.

Integrating RFID capabilities, eliminates the need for external RFID reader modules enabling smaller, more efficient device designs.

This integration eases the enablement of security-focused, contactless use cases such as access control, asset tracking, inventory management, and product authentication, ideal for retail, logistics, and industrial applications.

The device introduces software-configurable feature packs that let OEMs choose their offerings depending on the computing demands, multimedia capabilities, camera support, or peripheral configurations they need—with the ability to upgrade over the air without redesigning hardware.

This modular approach not only accelerates time to market and reduces certification overhead but also extends product lifecycles by enabling over-the-air upgrades as customer needs evolve.

By David Manners Posted on 27th August 2025 | Modified on 26th August 2025

https://www.electronicsweekly.com/news/business/qualcomm-adds-2025-08/