Qualcomm to license 5G, AI patents from Huawei in landmark deal

Qualcomm has agreed to license 5G and artificial intelligence patents from Huawei, with the American chipmaker committing to pay royalties to its Chinese rival under the new arrangement. The deal represents a notable development in the relationship between the two technology giants, which have long competed fiercely in the global telecommunications equipment and semiconductor markets.

The licensing agreement signals Huawei's growing leverage in 5G and AI patent portfolios despite international restrictions that have limited its access to critical chip supplies and software platforms. For Qualcomm, the arrangement allows the company to access technology developed by Huawei's research divisions while reducing potential legal disputes over intellectual property rights in these rapidly advancing fields.

Neither company has disclosed the financial terms of the agreement. The deal underscores the increasing importance of patent licensing as a revenue stream for technology companies, particularly in sectors where multiple parties hold overlapping intellectual property claims.

The arrangement comes as regulatory pressure and geopolitical tensions continue to reshape the technology sector across Asia and beyond. Both companies maintain substantial research and development operations focused on next-generation wireless communications and artificial intelligence applications.