AI Agent · Qualcomm · Apple · Samsung · Google · CNBC Technology
Qualcomm CEO says AI agents will replace apps, as chip giant works on 40 new AI-powered devices
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Qualcomm is working on over 40 designs of new AI devices, CEO Cristiano Amon told CNBC, as the chip designer prepares for a wave of "agents" across consumer electronics.
Key facts
- There were 1.26 billion smartphones shipped in 2025, according to Counterpoint research, around 3% higher than the year
- Qualcomm is working on over 40 designs of new AI devices, CEO Cristiano Amon told CNBC, as the chip designer prepares for a wave of "agents" across consumer electronics
- Right now, they have over 40 designs of those devices, and the reporter is telling you, the types of form factors are very, broad
- The Qualcomm CEO said he is bullish on smart glasses, a category of product that could rival smartphones in terms of scale
Summary
In a wide-ranging interview on CNBC's "The Tech Download" podcast, Amon laid out his views on the changing role of smartphones and apps, why smart glasses could be the next major consumer device, new types of electronics that will hit the market, and how chip architectures will need to change for even smaller gadgets. Amon's comments, which also alluded to new entrants in the consumer market, could have implications for the way major smartphone players like Apple and Samsung will need to compete as AI proliferates devices. "I think there's going to be a lot of experimentation with different form factors," Amon said on "The Tech Download. "Right now, they have over 40 designs of those devices, and the reporter is telling you, the types of form factors are very, broad.