Qualcomm Launches Dragonwing Q-6690 with Integrated RFID
Qualcomm announced the Dragonwing Q-6690, an enterprise mobile processor with integrated UHF RFID. Additionally, the chip packs 5G, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6.0, and ultra-wideband for broad connectivity.
Moreover, it targets rugged handhelds, retail point-of-sale systems, and smart kiosks.
Furthermore, OEMs and ODMs get a scalable platform that supports over-the-air upgrades.
Key features and benefits
The Q-6690 embeds RFID readers on the chip, thereby removing external modules.
Consequently, device designs can shrink while enabling contactless security and inventory use cases. Also, the processor supports proximity-aware experiences and real-time inventory analytics.
Next, software-configurable feature packs let manufacturers choose computing, multimedia, and peripheral profiles. Then, vendors can update those feature packs over the air without redesigning hardware.
Therefore, time-to-market shortens and product lifecycles extend through OTA upgrades.
Ecosystem response and use cases
For example, retail, logistics, and manufacturing can use built-in RFID for asset tracking and authentication. Meanwhile, the platform aims to power smarter kiosks, automated checkout, and digital product passports. Additionally, the modular approach reduces certification overhead while supporting AI and sensor fusion.
“At Decathlon, we’re relentlessly pursuing ways to elevate the customer experience while optimizing our operations,” said Hervé D’Halluin, Leader RFID & TRACEABILITY, Decathlon. “Since 2004, we’ve fully leveraged RFID technology across our entire value chain. By 2019, we had already achieved 100% RAIN RFID tagging of our products. Now, the Dragonwing Q-6690, with its fully integrated RFID and AI capabilities, represents a game changer. It’s set to maximize our operational efficiency, amplify smarter in-store customer experience, and support our sustainability goals through enhanced product traceability.”
“At EssilorLuxottica, we believe that integrating RFID into commercial devices is a key catalyst for redefining how consumers interact with products, enabling richer, more personalized engagement while opening new frontiers of innovation. Building on our expertise in NFC-enabled applications, we view this advancement as unlocking even greater possibilities. It paves the way for scalable, stylish, and design-forward solutions – particularly in categories such as eyewear where aesthetics is essential – delivering superior, consumer-centric experiences that set new benchmarks for the industry,” commented Fabio Napol, Head of Business Process Innovation at EssilorLuxottica.
“Qualcomm’s integration of RFID – also known as RAIN technology – into the Dragonwing Q-6690 empowers retailers and logistics companies to put RAIN-enabled devices into every employee’s hands, unlocking unprecedented productivity improvements and sales potential—from Digital Product Passports and circularity to automated checkout, product authentication, asset tracking and inventory management,” said Aileen Ryan, President and CEO at the RAIN Alliance. “This represents a seismic shift that will democratize the Internet of Things, reshape industries, and create entirely new markets.”
Takeaway
In short, the Dragonwing Q-6690 unites RFID, next-gen wireless, and modular software to accelerate contactless enterprise use cases. Consequently, device makers gain a compact, upgradeable foundation for future-ready industrial and retail solutions.
