The AI evolution: Transforming how we connect through 5G and Wi-Fi

What you should know:

• Seamless transitions between cellular and Wi-Fi networks improves real-time performance for applications like gaming and video calls through the AI connectivity in the Qualcomm X85 5G Modem-RF and Qualcomm FastConnect 7900 Mobile Connectivity System.
• AI reduces latency for mobile gaming and prevents interruptions during video calls by intelligently managing network handoffs and prioritizing traffic for OTT services like Zoom and WhatsApp, significantly enhancing user experience.
• AI optimizes both performance and efficiency, dynamically allocating bandwidth based on application needs and reducing power consumption to extend battery life, enabling smoother streaming, browsing and overall connectivity.

In a world where digital connections are increasingly vital, the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in enhancing our everyday connected experiences cannot be overstated. From optimizing gaming sessions to ensuring seamless video calls, AI is quietly revolutionizing how we interact with technology. Imagine a future where your device anticipates your needs, switching between Wi-Fi and cellular networks without a hitch, and where real-time experiences such as video calls and gaming are smoother than ever. This isn’t just a dream; it’s the reality we’re stepping into, thanks to the advancements in AI connectivity with the Qualcomm X85 5G Modem-RF and the FastConnect 7900. Join us as we explore how Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. is using AI to improve the user experience across key use cases.

Online gaming through cellular networks and Wi-Fi

The gaming community is on the cusp of a transformative era, one in which AI is poised to revolutionize the gaming experience. In the realm of online gaming, the smallest delay can tip the balance between success and failure. The frustrations of lag, poor latency and connectivity hiccups have plagued many players. Yet with the latest strides in AI, these issues are effectively addressed. By optimizing data flow, AI is paving the way for gamers to enjoy seamless, responsive gameplay, even over cellular networks.

One of the most significant ways AI is enhancing gaming is through traffic detection and prioritization. Traditional cellular networks are challenged with managing the diverse and demanding data requirements of modern games. AI-powered 5G modems like the Qualcomm X85 5G Modem-RF, however, it can detect gaming data traffic in real time and prioritize gaming over  other types of data. This means that when you’re in the heat of a battle or trying to make that crucial move, your connection is less likely to be interrupted by other apps or background processes.

Similarly, traffic detection and prioritization also deliver latency benefits on Wi-Fi. With AI-optimized Wi-Fi from the FastConnect 7900, users can experience improved latency while gaming.

Furthermore, AI-driven optimization is not only about enhancing the gaming experience; it's also about increasing its accessibility. Mobile devices now make up the largest category for gaming devices. Gamers who rely on cellular data or Wi-Fi to play while on the go can now enjoy a more stable and reliable connection with AI so that the gaming session remains as seamless as possible. This technology is particularly beneficial for mobile gamers, who often face the challenge of fluctuating network conditions. With the assistance of AI, the mobile gaming experience is becoming more akin to a dedicated gaming console or PC, bridging the gap between different platforms and making gaming more inclusive.

Smoother video calls during transitions from Wi-Fi to 5G

The technology behind video calls is complex, and it’s only becoming more so. As we continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible, we’re constantly looking for new ways to improve the video-calling experience. One of the most exciting areas of development is the use of AI to optimize video calls in real time. AI is already playing a crucial role in ensuring video calls are as clear and seamless as possible, even when network conditions are less than ideal. For example, AI can help reduce the amount of data that needs to be transmitted during a call, which can be particularly helpful when bandwidth is limited. Real-time services, including over-the-top (OTT) voice, video and conferencing applications like MS Teams, Zoom, Webex, WhatsApp and WeChat, often face issues such as call quality degradation, interruptions or muting when switching between cellular and Wi-Fi networks. These transitions can disrupt ongoing communications, leading to a less reliable user experience across various platforms.

This handoff is not just about changing networks; it’s about maintaining the quality and continuity of your video or voice call when transitioning between 5G and Wi-Fi networks.

The Qualcomm X85 5G Modem-RF uses its integrated  Qualcomm AI-Powered Data Traffic Engine to enhance Wi-Fi to cellular transitions, reducing or even eliminating muting or interruptions.

Wi-Fi to cellular direction use case

Normally, cellular devices have exit thresholds for Wi-Fi that are not tuned for OTT services. As a result, all apps and services exit Wi-Fi at the same time, which can negatively impact the end-user experience, causing interruptions before switching to cellular networks. This is the situation when you have an ongoing video call (e.g., Teams or WhatsApp) and move from a Wi-Fi coverage area to a cellular-covered area.

 The Qualcomm AI-Powered Data Traffic Engine in the Qualcomm X85 5G Modem-RF determines whether OTT voice, video or conferencing is active. As soon as Wi-Fi signal quality degradation is anticipated, the AI-enhanced optimized solution switches the route to cellular for OTT services to avoid interruptions. All other traffic follows the default route. Practically, you should not notice any glitch in your data connection or any audio or video interruptions.

Cellular to Wi-Fi Direction Use Case

In this scenario, when moving from a cellular coverage area to a Wi-Fi-covered area, the default route selection on a cellular device switch to Wi-Fi as soon as Wi-Fi becomes available. Again, all OTT applications switch to the Wi-Fi network at the same time, causing degradation or interruption of the service. The Qualcomm AI-Powered Data Traffic Engine determines whether OTT voice, video or conferencing is active. If so, the AI-enhanced optimized route avoids switching the route to Wi-Fi for OTT services, thus preventing any service interruptions. The result is zero interruption or muting during your transition. Whether you’re moving from a taxicab to the Wi-Fi coverage of a hotel lobby, or from your office to the car under 5G coverage, your video call can remain stable and clear, without any drop in audio or video quality. This level of sophistication not only enhances user experience but also allows critical conversations — whether for business or personal matters — to continue uninterrupted.

AI-powered Wi-Fi designed to optimize power consumption and data traffic

Whether streaming a favorite show or simply browsing the internet, AI is at work to enable the smooth and efficient completion of these activities. In the past, common frustrations such as buffering and lag were experienced, particularly when multiple devices were connected to the same Wi-Fi network. Today, AI-enhanced Wi-Fi like the FastConnect 7900 can detect and manage network traffic in real time, allowing for an uninterrupted streaming experience and swift browsing capabilities. These optimizations are designed to analyze the type of traffic being transmitted and prioritize it according to the application's needs. For instance, video streams require a consistent, high-bandwidth connection, while web browsing can tolerate slight variations in data speed. Through intelligent resource allocation, AI aids in the prevention of network congestion so that each connected device receives the necessary bandwidth to function optimally.

Another significant advantage of AI in Wi-Fi is its capacity to optimize power consumption.  Based on the applications being used on your phone, your FastConnect 7900 enabled device can dynamically optimize power based on the traffic requirements.

Embracing the future: AI-driven connectivity for a seamless digital experience

Connectivity is an integral part of our mobile experiences, especially living in a digitalized and globally connected world. With AI-enhanced connectivity in the Qualcomm X85 5G Modem-RF and FastConnect 7900, users experience high-performance, dynamic, power-efficient and reliable 5G and Wi-Fi connections that improve applications across online gaming, video calls, streaming and more. Qualcomm Technologies’ use of AI not only improves the way we connect but also paves the path for a more integrated and efficient digital world.