Qualcomm Targets Partner Ecosystem Expansion in India
Qualcomm intends to enhance and broaden its partner network in India to accelerate the widespread adoption of its Internet of Things (IoT) solutions. This initiative is aimed at reinforcing Qualcomm's position in the market, as stated by Dev Singh, Vice President of Business Development and Head of Enterprise and Industrial Automation at Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. “We believe that IoT is a team sport. We may have the best silicon, but making the software and tools is the opportunity ahead of us that we are focused on. However, as everyone has distinct wants, it is insufficient to meet the market’s needs. Thus, we create an entire ecosystem. Qualcomm is creating the ideal product, but we also require an environment to support it all", Singh said.
Qualcomm's ecosystem includes a range of partners, including original design manufacturers (ODM) and original equipment manufacturers (OEM), collaborating with the company to develop final products and support local manufacturing and customization. Additionally, Independent Software Vendors (ISVs) within the ecosystem provide value-added software solutions built on Qualcomm's technology, addressing specific requirements and playing a crucial role in their diverse applications.
The company also collaborates with distributors and system integrators like Capgemini and Deloitte, providing them with IoT solutions and blueprints. By partnering with these integrators, Qualcomm aims to simplify the adoption of IoT technology for consumers, especially those unaware of the right technology choices. The company for its IoT offerings focuses on segments like retail, energy utilities, industrial automation (including manufacturing), smart cities and enterprises. Their processors cater to devices such as smart cameras, connectivity tools, AI-based devices like kiosks and robots and point-of-sale devices. These processors offer computing, security and connectivity, explains Singh.
Qualcomm observes significant expansion and acceptance of IoT in India across diverse sectors. The surge in digital payments leading to the widespread utilization of point-of-sale devices, the retail sector's embrace of digital transformation, and the energy sector's adoption of IoT, exemplified by the transition to smart meters, all serve as compelling evidence of this trend.
Additionally, the government’s focus on smart cities and agricultural advancements and the burgeoning innovation in India, including the development of indigenous technologies like drones, cameras and agricultural robots, are contributing to the optimistic outlook on IoT’s future in the country, Singh notes. “This opportunity added with the huge volumes that can be potentially achieved because of the sheer scale of population, makes the region attractive", he said.
Emphasizing the significance of Qualcomm's workforce in India, Singh highlighted the company's robust presence in Bangalore and Hyderabad. The Bangalore Design Center concentrates on silicon development, while Hyderabad accommodates software teams. India plays a pivotal role in multiple product categories through collaborative efforts with global teams.