Abu Dhabi’s Technology Innovation Institute Partners With Qualcomm To Build Next-Generation Autonomous Systems

The Technology Innovation Institute (TII), an international research and development hub specializing in technological innovation and applied science under Abu Dhabi's Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC), has partnered with Qualcomm Technologies, Inc., a company which develops wireless and edge-computing technologies, to accelerate the development of edge-based artificial intelligence (AI) and self-operating robotic platforms. 

This partnership combines TII's deep research capabilities in robotics and autonomous systems with Qualcomm Technologies' sophisticated computing architectures, targeting the development of machines that can function independently across varied and challenging environments, both indoors and outdoors. 

Unlike systems dependent on cloud infrastructure, edge-AI technology processes information locally on the device itself. This approach gives autonomous machines, from aerial vehicles to ground-based robots, the ability to understand their surroundings, execute split-second judgments, and take action using onboard computational power, all without requiring persistent internet connectivity. 

In a statement, Dr. Najwa Aaraj, CEO of TII, said, “By working with advanced edge-AI platforms, TII is expanding the range of autonomous and robotics capabilities we can develop. This collaboration strengthens our ability to build robots that are more aware, adaptive, and capable of operating in real-world conditions, from navigating crowded indoor spaces to responding to unpredictable conditions and supporting environmental monitoring and restoration.”

Dev Singh, Vice President, Industrial Solutions and Head of Qualcomm Abu Dhabi, added, “Qualcomm Technologies is pleased to collaborate with the Technology Innovation Institute to explore the advancement of autonomous, edge‑AI‑driven systems. Through this collaboration, we look forward to helping enable intelligent edge solutions powered by Qualcomm Dragonwing platforms for critical sectors such as oil and gas, mining, construction, and smart cities. Together, we’re aiming to accelerate innovations that can help drive meaningful impact across key industries.” 

The partnership targets practical deployments in high-priority sectors, including energy infrastructure, extractive industries, construction sites, and intelligent urban environments. In these settings, self-operating systems could meaningfully improve workplace safety, streamline operations, and contribute to better environmental practices. 

A central component of this work involves integrating Qualcomm Technologies' specialized processors into TII's research programs. The Qualcomm Dragonwing IQ9 and IQ10 chipset families will be key focus areas. These processors pack considerable computing capabilities into small form factors, incorporating neural network acceleration, visual understanding systems, multisensory data fusion, and wireless communication, all while consuming minimal power. Though originally engineered for smartphones and portable electronics, these same platforms are now finding new applications in machines that think and act autonomously in unpredictable settings. 

Research efforts will span multiple robotic configurations. One track explores humanoid platforms built to coexist with people in shared spaces. Another investigates coordinated flying systems capable of maneuvering through confined interiors as well as executing demanding outdoor assignments, emergency response operations, facility assessments, and ecological surveys among them. 

Pictured in the lead image is a scene from the signing of the partnership between TII and Qualcomm Techonologies. Image courtesy TII.