Leading smart device manufacturer OPPO has signed a global patent licensing agreement with Volkswagen Group, marking a significant milestone in cross-industry collaboration between consumer electronics and automotive technology. The agreement grants Volkswagen access to OPPO’s cellular standard-essential patents (SEPs)—including 5G technologies—to enhance its global lineup of connected vehicles.
The agreement represents OPPO’s first bilateral licensing deal with a connected vehicle company and highlights the growing application of its technologies beyond smartphones and consumer electronics.
Enhancing Connected Mobility
Through this partnership, Volkswagen will integrate OPPO’s SEP portfolio into its connected car offerings to support more advanced, seamless user experiences for drivers and passengers across international markets. The agreement aligns with the automotive industry’s increasing reliance on robust mobile connectivity to support infotainment, autonomous navigation, and smart transport ecosystems.
“We are delighted to collaborate with Volkswagen through this patent licensing agreement,” said Vincent Lin, Head of Patent Licensing at OPPO.
“This partnership is further recognition of OPPO’s leadership in cellular technology innovation and our commitment to building a healthy, sustainable IP ecosystem that supports long-term growth and innovation.”
Volkswagen Commends Collaborative Licensing Model
Robin Cefai, Chief IP Licensing Officer at Volkswagen, praised the partnership’s business-minded approach to intellectual property:
“The agreement with OPPO is an example of efficient, respectful, business-focused collaboration. It illustrates Volkswagen’s commitment to recognizing IP value and pursuing sustainable solutions for all parties.”
Volkswagen is the latest automotive giant to license essential mobile connectivity technology, which is becoming foundational to the industry’s digital transformation.
Global Reach, Regional Relevance
OPPO’s 5G SEPs span over 40 countries and regions, including the UAE and wider Middle East, reinforcing its status as a global connectivity leader. According to LexisNexis® IPlytics, OPPO ranked eighth globally in 5G patent strength as of January 2025.
With over 113,000 global patent applications and more than 62,000 granted patents as of March 2025, OPPO continues to invest heavily in areas such as 5G/6G, AI, charging, and imaging technologies.
Driving UAE’s Future Mobility Vision
The OPPO–Volkswagen deal aligns closely with the UAE’s smart city and autonomous mobility strategies. Since becoming the first Middle Eastern country—and the fourth worldwide—to launch 5G in 2019, the UAE has prioritized advanced digital infrastructure to support autonomous vehicles and connected transport networks.
Dubai’s Autonomous Transportation Strategy aims to shift 25% of the city’s mobility to autonomous modes by 2030, potentially saving AED 22 billion annually in economic costs. The city is also set to launch driverless taxi trials in 2026, reinforcing its position as a global innovation hub.
As 5G continues to act as a critical enabler for next-generation mobility, OPPO’s technology licensing strategy positions it as a key contributor to the global smart transport revolution—bridging sectors and continents in the pursuit of connected progress.
