Huawei, Qualcomm Ink $6.9bn Patent Deal

Huawei and Qualcomm have agreed to a multi-year patent licensing deal, covering 5G, AI, computing, and networking technology fields. The deal reflects the companies' commitment to intellectual property rights and fair licensing practices.

The agreement includes cross licenses to the companies' patent portfolios, allowing each company to use the other's patents in these fields. Additionally, Qualcomm will purchase some of Huawei's US patents in computing, AI, networking, and other areas, with the purchase set to close once regulators approve it.

Huawei expects the agreement to raise the total value of its patent licensing deals to more than $6.9bn. The company's licensing business has been revenue-positive since 2021, demonstrating the value of its innovations. This deal is the first licensing agreement between the two companies that covers 5G.

The relationship between Huawei and Qualcomm has evolved over time, with Huawei making its first licensing payment to Qualcomm in 2001 and receiving its first licensing income a decade later from Motorola. The agreement was announced on October 5, 2026.

## Why it matters The deal is significant as it demonstrates the companies' shared commitment to intellectual property rights and fair licensing practices. Huawei has spent heavily on research since 2019, when US trade restrictions began to limit its access to advanced chips and key software. This agreement shows that despite these restrictions, patent licensing deals can still be made.

The agreement also highlights the importance of 5G technology and the role of companies like Huawei and Qualcomm in driving innovation in this field. With the total value of Huawei's patent licensing deals expected to exceed $6.9bn, this agreement is a major development in the tech industry.