Huawei and Qualcomm have agreed to a multi-year patent licensing deal covering technologies such as 5G, computing, artificial intelligence and networking.
The agreement allows the two companies to cross-license patents from their respective portfolios across these technology areas.
As part of the deal, Qualcomm will also purchase certain Huawei patents registered in the United States. These patents cover computing, AI, networking and other technologies.
The transaction will be completed after the companies receive the required regulatory approvals.
What does the patent deal cover?
The agreement covers patents held by both Huawei and Qualcomm.
In simple terms, cross-licensing allows each company to use certain technologies covered by the other company’s patents under agreed licensing terms.
The deal covers several areas that are central to modern technology. These include 5G mobile communications, computing, AI and networking.
Qualcomm will also acquire selected Huawei U.S. patents in these areas.
The companies said the agreement follows fair, reasonable and non-discriminatory (FRAND) licensing principles. These principles are commonly used when companies license patents that are important to industry standards.
Why are 5G patents important?
Both Huawei and Qualcomm have invested heavily in wireless technology.
Huawei said its research has contributed to 4G and 5G standards, including the use of polar codes for signal transmission.
Qualcomm has also developed technologies used in successive generations of wireless communications. The company said the agreement supports its 5G standard-essential patent licensing programme.
Huawei Chief Intellectual Property Officer Alan Fan said the agreement recognises the value of both companies’ technology contributions.
John Han, Executive Vice President and General Manager of Qualcomm Technology Licensing, said the agreement also recognises Huawei’s continued work in 5G and other technology areas.
The agreement will now move through the required regulatory process before the transaction can close.
Last modified: October 16, 2026
