Plenary Talks

Distinguished Industry Speaker Series for the 2025 IEEE AP-S / USNC-URSI Symposium

Advancements in Smartphone Antennas and Challenges in Frequency Spectrum Expansion

Dr. Yihong Qi

Dr. Joonho Byun
Corporate Vice President / Head of Antenna Group
Samsung Electronics

Abstract

As the mobile communications industry has experienced rapid growth through the implementation of 5G technology, new challenges have emerged, particularly with the introduction of millimeter-wave (mmWave) frequencies. This talk will focus on the evolution of smartphone antenna technologies and the physical and propagation challenges involved in integrating multiple frequency bands and antennas into mobile devices. Special attention will be given to innovative approaches aimed at overcoming the physical limitations of antenna implementation in smartphones. Additionally, the propagation characteristics of mmWave bands will be analyzed and discussed. It aims to provide valuable insights for both academia and industry and hopes to serve as a useful resource for the next generation of antenna researchers actively working in this field.

Biography

Joonho Byun is a Corporate Vice President at Samsung Electronics, leading the Antenna Engineering Group at Samsung Electronics. With over 25 years of experience in the mobile industry, he has been a key driver of innovations, including the development of the world’s first 5G smartphone and the commercialization of foldable devices. He is responsible for the strategy, technology roadmap, and architecture of antenna systems across various product lines, including smartphones, tablets, wearables, and more. He has also led the development of patent portfolios related to antenna technologies and played a key role in integrating advanced antenna systems such as satellite communication, UWB, and mm-wave into mobile devices. He has contributed to global standardization efforts, including unifying OTA requirements with telecom operators. He holds a Ph.D. from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale in 1999.

Sponsored by:

IEEE AP-S Industrial Initiatives Committee
IEEE AP-S Membership and Benefits Committee