Qualcomm Technologies, Inc., has announced the launch of three new 4G Modem-RF solutions at Mobile World Congress 2025, designed to meet the growing demands of the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT). These advanced modems—Qualcomm E41, E51, and E52—offer reliable connectivity, precise positioning, and a cost-effective design, making them ideal for various industrial applications.
The Qualcomm E41 4G Modem-RF is a breakthrough solution featuring an industry-first GSMA pre-certified integrated SIM (iSIM). This innovation streamlines the device manufacturing process by reducing the need for extra hardware and enabling devices to connect to cellular networks remotely after production. The E41 modem also pairs seamlessly with the Qualcomm Aware Platform, providing enterprises, OEMs, and developers with tools to build and scale cloud-connected devices for a wide range of industrial use cases.
Moreover, the E41 modem enhances location tracking capabilities, even in challenging environments such as warehouses or dense urban areas, using ambient signals and optional GNSS assistance. Its features make it a robust solution for asset tracking, fleet management, and other IIoT applications.
Qualcomm E51 and E52: Low-Power Modems for NB-IoT and Cat 1bis
The Qualcomm E51 and E52 4G Modem-RF solutions are optimized for low-power and cost-sensitive IoT applications. Supporting NB-IoT and Cat 1bis networks, these modems are ideal for devices such as smart meters, healthcare wearables, and point-of-sale terminals. The E51 modem also eliminates the need for dedicated GPS hardware by leveraging cloud-based GPS positioning services, further simplifying device design while maintaining location accuracy.
These modems are designed to address the connectivity and positioning needs of a variety of industrial sectors, including:
- Energy and Utilities: Enables efficient smart metering and localized grid management while reducing costs and manual intervention.
- Retail: Supports real-time inventory management and advanced payment processing systems for improved operational efficiency.
- Autonomous Robots: Provides precise navigation and reliable connectivity to enhance automation in warehouses, logistics, and manufacturing.
Qualcomm’s new modem designs are highly integrated, allowing manufacturers to reduce production costs and simplify the device development process. The E41’s integrated iSIM, in particular, enables global connectivity without the need for multiple device models tailored to different regions. This approach not only lowers costs but also accelerates time-to-market for industrial devices.
