Viettel Partners With Qualcomm to Lead Global 6G Development

Vietnam’s military-run Viettel has entered a partnership with Qualcomm Technologies to join the 6G Early Access Program as its first global partner. This collaboration focuses on the early development of 6G infrastructure, with the goal of conducting a pre-commercial 6G voice call by early 2029. The agreement also encompasses broader collaboration across AI, high-capacity data center development, and the design of advanced telecommunications products.

The partnership positions Viettel at the forefront of the next generation of mobile connectivity, leveraging Qualcomm’s expertise in chip design alongside Viettel’s extensive infrastructure reach. By collaborating on 6G research and development now, both firms aim to set global standards for the technology. The initiative also aims to accelerate the deployment of high-speed network products across emerging markets in Southeast Asia, South Asia, Africa, and Latin America.

This collaboration signals a shift in the telecommunications landscape where regional leaders are increasingly taking active roles in global standard-setting for future network technologies. By focusing on 6G early, Viettel seeks to secure a competitive edge and expand its footprint beyond Vietnam. The project’s success will be measured by its ability to integrate emerging AI and advanced data processing capabilities into standard cellular networks to enhance overall network performance and service reach.