Qualcomm Acquires Cellwize

Qualcomm agreed to buy Israel-headquartered mobile network automation and orchestration vendor Cellwize. Cellwize’s 5G network deployment, automation, and management software platform capabilities will further strengthen Qualcomm's 5G infrastructure solutions.

“Global mobile operators and private enterprises are deploying 5G networks at an unprecedented pace across industries to connect everyone and everything to the cloud,“ said Durga Malladi, senior vice president, and general manager of cellular modems and infrastructure at Qualcomm. “The addition of Cellwize’s best-in-class RAN automation technologies strengthens Qualcomm Technologies’ ability to drive the development of the modern 5G network - accelerating Open RAN global adoption, cloud-based cellular infrastructure innovation, and 5G private network deployments.“

“We are excited to join Qualcomm Technologies as we are both committed to accelerating the mission to modernize Radio Access Networks and enable mobile network operators and enterprises to fully realize and monetize their digital transformation,“ said Ofir Zemer, former CEO of Cellwize, who now is vice president for product management at Qualcomm.

Qualcomm Ventures was one of the lead investors of a $32 million Series-B funding round conducted by Cellwize in 2020. Cellwize had raised a total of $56.5 million across four rounds before the Qualcomm deal. The Israeli company also lists Nextel and Bell Canada among its customers. Qualcomm did not state when the deal was expected to close.