Qualcomm Licenses AMD Graphics Core IP

AMD licensed its Unified Shader Architecture graphics core technology to Qualcomm, which plans to use the IP in its Mobile Station Modem (MSM) chipsets. The architecture, which debuted in Microsoft's Xbox 360, will enhance Qualcomm's mobile gaming ecosystem by bringing state-of-the-art graphics to a range of handheld devices. It is compliant with the OpenGL ES 2.0 graphics standard. "We look forward to seeing devices that leverage this technology to deliver the full potential of what wireless has to offer," Steve Mollenkopf, senior vice president of product management for Qualcomm CDMA Technologies, said in a statement. Alex Caccia, CEO of Ideaworks3D, said the partnership will lay the groundwork for new devices that will be able to support 3D performance similar to that of game consoles and PCs. "The promise of upcoming handheld architectures supporting OpenGL ES 2.0 graphics standards is expected to bring a game-changing evolution in 3D capabilities for developers," he said.