A pioneer in wireless communications, Qualcomm makes semiconductors and software for use in vehicles, industrial technology, smartphones, laptops, and many other devices. The company uses a fabless semiconductor model, designing chips but outsourcing the manufacturing of many components. It also has a strategic investments and venture arm, which backs early-stage companies in industries like 5G, artificial intelligence, and the Internet of Things. Founded in 1985, Qualcomm developed the CDMA technology that now underpins commercial cell phone networks.

Daniel Ceng—Anadolu/Getty Images