For over the past two decades, Viettel and Qualcomm have built a trusted partnership that has delivered breakthrough technologies and positioned Vietnam as an emerging global hub for innovation. Together, we have created pioneering solutions across secure communications, AI, and next-generation 5G networks.
From 3G to 5G: Building the Foundation
The collaboration began in the early 2000s when Viettel was preparing to bring mobile connectivity to millions of people in Vietnam and beyond. Qualcomm’s chipset technologies played a key role in enabling Viettel’s rollout of 3G services and the development of affordable devices that connected first-time users to the internet.
Together, the two companies introduced products such as USB 3G devices, WiFi access points, and secure smartphones. These solutions were critical in closing the digital gap and supporting Viettel’s mission to make connectivity accessible for everyone.
Key Milestones in the partnership
🔹 2018 – VIPPHONE: Secure Communications
Viettel and Qualcomm introduced VIPPHONE, a smartphone designed with world-class encryption to protect calls and messages from interception, powered by the Snapdragon 625 platform.
🔹 2022 – World’s First 5G AI Camera for Smart Traffic
The two companies co-developed the first 5G AI Camera for smart transportation, integrating Qualcomm’s QCS8250 chipset. The solution has been deployed in Vietnamese cities such as Thai Nguyen, Hai Phong, and Hue, and exported to markets including Dubai and Kuwait.
🔹 2022–2024 – Pioneering 5G Open RAN
In just eight months, Viettel successfully developed its first Open RAN 5G radio unit (RU) using Qualcomm’s pre-commercial chipsets. By 2024, Viettel became the first global partner to deploy 5G Open RAN stations with Qualcomm chipsets in live networks, commercializing over 2,300 “Make in Vietnam” base stations.
🔹 2023 – Record Performance in Live Networks
The joint Open RAN solution achieved speeds of up to 850 Mbps in high-density areas, setting new benchmarks for deployment speed and performance.
🔹 2025 and Beyond – Expanding Strategic Cooperation
In August 2025, Qualcomm CEO Cristiano Amon visited Viettel High Tech and reaffirmed Qualcomm’s commitment to deepen collaboration. Viettel is the only global partner to receive Qualcomm’s 5G source code for joint development.
On August 14, Viettel and Qualcomm signed a new Strategic Cooperation Agreement to expand collaboration into:
- 5G/6G infrastructure and AI-driven network management
- Data centers and cloud technology
- Wi-Fi 7 and home telecom devices
- AI applications for governments and enterprises
With a target of deploying over 2,000 5G Open RAN stations in 2025, Viettel is proud to be among the world’s few companies capable of designing and manufacturing end-to-end 5G network equipment.
A Partnership Built to Last
Viettel and Qualcomm are not only advancing the adoption of 5G but also laying the foundation for 6G and AI-powered digital transformation. Together, we are committed to making Vietnam a global R&D and technology hub, bringing advanced connectivity solutions to the world.
As Viettel continues its journey from a telco to a techco, Qualcomm remains a trusted partner, ensuring that together both companies will continue to shape the future of connectivity worldwide.
