X85 modem is Qualcomm's latest 5G modem-RF system that can drive new all-time highs in terms of bandwidth and upload speeds. The snapdragon X85 modem-RF is the successor to Qualcomm's X80 that brings more and several advancements in speed, efficiency, and intelligent connectivity.
The X85 is the fourth overall "modem-to-antena" by Qualcomm and the company said the X85 modem's inference capabilities are almost 30% better than our previous modem.” The chip is expected to be available on consumers' gadgets in the second half of 2025.
It's worth noting that Qualcomm unveiled the latest 5G modem at Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2025, where it also unveiled a new Dragonwing fixed-wireless platform---a complete fixed wireless access broadband solution for homes, businesses, and enterprises.
The differences between X85 5G modem-RF system and Dragonwing fixed-wireless system are:
- X85 5G modem is a standalone 5G modem designed for mobile devices, laptops, automotive systems, and other connected devices, while Dragonwing FWA is complete fixed wireless access broadband solution for homes, businesses, and enterprises.
- X85 5G modem focuses onon mobile 5G connectivity, including smartphones and embedded systems. Dragonwing uses high-power antennas and networking features to replace fiber broadband in remote or suburban areas.
- While the Dragonwing FWA is built to provide long-range 5G connectivity with mmWave and Sub-6GHz support, X85 5G modem features AI-driven optimizations for better speed, latency, and power efficiency.
- While Dragonwing FWA integrates Wi-Fi 7, 10GbE networking, and satellite backup connectivity (NTN support), and also supports 11 Gbps+ speeds and long-range mmWave connectivity up to 14km, X85 5G modem Supports up to 12.5 Gbps download & 3.7 Gbps upload speeds, and Enables carrier aggregation and Dual SIM Dual Active (DSDA) for smartphones.
In a nutshell, the Qualcomm's X85 5G modem-RF is built and designed for on-the-go connectivity (smartphones, laptops, vehicles), and the Dragonwing FWA is a fixed wireless solution for replacing wired broadband (fiber alternative). The Dragonwing FWA is mostly used by internet service providers (ISPs), enterprise networks, rural broadband providers, and private 5G network deployments.
How fast is the X85 5G Modem?
The Qualcomm's X85 5G modem-RF is 30% faster than its successor in terms of AI interence. That's to say the system is equipped with a dedicated 5G AI processor.
This 5G AI processor allows the modem to intelligently manage data traffic, optimizing bandwidth allocation for applications like video calls and online gaming, leading to reduced latency and improved power efficiency.
It supports peak download speeds of up to 12.5 Gbps and upload speeds reaching 3.7 Gbps. This is a notable improvement over X80 5G Modem-RF System, its processor that was introduced in 2024. The Qualcomm Snapdragon X80 5G Modem-RF System has a download speed up to 10 Gbps and a upload speed up to 3.5 Gbps.
In addition to Qualcomm's X85 5G Modem-RF System speed, downlink carrier aggregation with 400MHz bandwidth in Sub-6GHz is also integrated in the modem. The downlink carrier aggregation utilizes a 1024 Quadrature Amplitude Modulation (QAM) that enhances network reliability and speed, particularly in congested areas in the modem.
The X85 is the first to offer 3CC + 1CC Turbo Dual SIM Dual Active (DSDA), enabling faster and more efficient connectivity when using two 5G SIMs simultaneously. It also supports 5G Advanced capabilities in various devices, including PCs, fixed wireless access points, automotive systems, and extended reality (XR) devices.
More features of the Qualcomm's X85 5G Modem-RF
Here are the features that the Qualcomm's Snapdradon X85 5G Modem-RF carries:
AI-powered traffic management: The X85 5G modem features an AI-based traffic detection model that helps identify different types of traffic (including, voice calls vs. video streaming) and dynamically prioritize bandwidth allocation for a better experience.
Expanded 5G band support: The Qualcomm's latest modem-RF also supports full spectrum of 5G bank including: sub-6GHz frequencies (like China’s n104 band at 6.425-7.125 GHz), and mmWave frequencies, which are mainly used in high-density areas like sports arenas.
It also enhances connectivity by smoothing transitions between Wi-Fi and cellular networks; this helps to reduce disruptions during handoffs. It also supports over 10,000 carrier aggregation combinations that gives mobile operators greater flexibility to optimize network performance.
The Qualcomm's X85 modem is also features satellite connectivity for coverage in remote areas and supports the Future Railway Mobile Communication System (FRMCS) in Europe, enabling faster, more secure communications between trains and operators while also improving passenger connectivity.
The Dragonwing Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) that was unveiled alongside X85 modem at the MWC is a Gen 4 Elite model built for home and enterprise broadband. It features Wi-Fi 7, 10-Gigabit Ethernet, and 40 TOPS of AI power that helps in delivering high-speed internet with an impressive mmWave range of over 8.5 miles.
Additionally, Qualcomm unveiled the Snapdragon X82, a cost-effective 5G modem optimized for mainstream broadband applications. Both the X82 and X85 are currently being tested by manufacturers and are expected to appear in commercial devices later in 2025.
