Notes to Financial Statements [Abstract] Changes in stockholders' equity Investment income (loss) net [Table Text Block] This item represents the disclosure related to the interest and dividend income derived from investments in debt and equity securities and on cash and cash equivalents and realized and unrealized gains and losses reported in the statement of income which have resulted from the sale and holding of marketable securities, respectively, as well as the sale or disposal of cost and equity method investments. Cash dividends Cash dividends [Table Text Block] This item represents the disclosure of cash dividends announced. Earnings Per Common Share Earnings Per Share, Policy [Policy Text Block] Number of weeks in a fiscal period Fiscal Period, Policy [Policy Text Block] Incremental Dilutive Common Share Equivalents [Abstract] Weighted Average Number Diluted Shares Outstanding Adjustment [Abstract] Incremental dilutive common share equivalents (in shares) Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Share-based Payment Arrangements Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Abstract] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Other-than-temporary loss, not credit loss, net of tax, available-for-sale securities Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Other than Temporary Impairment, Not Credit Loss, Net of Tax, Available-for-sale, Debt Securities Share-Based Compensation [Abstract] Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Aggregate Disclosures [Abstract] Share-based compensation expense related to share-based awards Share-based compensation expense related to share-based award Represents the expense recognized during the period arising from share-based awards granted in the period (for example, shares of stock, stock options or other equity instruments) with employees, directors and certain consultants qualifying for treatment as employees. Incremental tax benefit from stock options exercised Excess Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation, Financing Activities Grant of employee restricted stocks (in shares) Grant of employee restricted stocks The number of awards granted during the period under a share-based award plan other than stock option plans (for example, phantom stock plan, stock appreciation rights plan, performance target plan). Vesting period employee restricted stock units This element represents the vesting period of the employee restricted stock units. Weighted average fair value employee restricted stock units This element represents the weighted-average estimated fair value of employee restricted stock units granted during the period. Unvested employee restricted stock units (in shares) Unvested employee restricted stock units This element represents the number of unvested employee restricted stock units as of the end of the period. Total unrecognized compensation cost for non-vested stock options Total Unrecognized Compensation Cost Non Vested Stock Options This element represents the total unrecognized estimated compensation costs related to non-vested stock options granted prior to the end of the period. Total unrecognized compensation cost for non-vested employee restricted stock units Total unrecognized compensation cost non-vested employee restricted stock units This element represents the total unrecognized estimated compensation costs related to non-vested employee restricted stock units granted prior to the end of the period. Weighted-average recognition period for non-vested employee stock options (in years) Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition Weighted average recognition period for non-vested employee restricted stock units (in years) Weighted average recognition period non vested employee restricted stock units This element represents the weighted-average period over which the total unrecognized estimated compensation related to non-vested employee restricted stock units is expected to be recognized. Net share-based awards granted, after forfeitures and cancellations, as a percentage of outstanding shares as of the beginning of each fiscal period Net Share Based Awards After Forfeitures And Cancellations Percent Of Outstanding Shares This element represents the net share-based awards (after forfeitures and cancellations) granted during the fiscal period as a percentage of outstanding shares as of the beginning of the fiscal period. Total share-based awards granted during the period as a percentage of outstanding shares as of the end of each fiscal period Total Share Based Awards Granted Percent Of Oustanding Shares This element represents the total share-based awards granted during the fiscal period as a percentage of outstanding shares as of the end of the fiscal period. Business Acquisition, Equity Interest Issued or Issuable, Number of Shares Fair value hierarchy for assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis Fair Value, Measurement Inputs, Disclosure [Table Text Block] Activity for marketable securities classified within Level 3 of the valuation hierarchy Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Investment income, net Investment Income [Table Text Block] Acquisitions [Abstract] Loss Contingencies [Table] Loss Contingencies [Table] Loss Contingencies by Nature of Contingency [Axis] Loss Contingencies by Nature of Contingency [Axis] Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain] Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Legal Proceedings [Abstract] Loss Contingency [Abstract] Expiration date of subject patents Expiration Date Of Subject Patents The expiration date of patents on which an infringement lawsuit was filed, at which time the ITC orders will cease to be operative. Payment in noncurrent other assets Security Deposit Noncontrolling interest, description Noncontrolling Interest, Description Assesment of unpaid dues of subsidiary partner in India Assesment of unpaid dues of subsidiary partner in India The amount of unpaid dues claimed by the Indian government to be owed by one of the Company's susdiaries' Indian shareholders. Payment of unpaid dues of subsidiary partner in India Payment of the amount of unpaid dues claimed by the Indian government to be owed by one of the Company's susdiaries' Indian shareholders. Provisional assesment of unpaid dues of subsidiary partner in India Provisional Assesment of Unpaid Dues of Subsidiary Partner in India Provisional assesment of unpaid dues of subsidiary partner in India by the DoT. Number of U.S. companies that filed complaints with the Korea Fair Trade Commission Number Of US Companies That Filed Complaints With Korea Fair Trade Commission The number of U.S. companies that filed complaints with the Korea Fair Trade Commission (KTC) alleging that certain of the Company's business practices violate South Korean anti-trust regulations. Number of South Korean companies that filed complaints with the Korea Fair Trade Commission Number Of South Korean Companies That Filed Complaints With Korea Fair Trade Commission The number of South Korean companies that filed complaints with the Korea Fair Trade Commission (KTC) alleging that certain of the Company's business practices violate South Korean anti-trust regulations. KFTC levied fine The element represents the fine in Korean won levied by the Korea Fair Trade Commission. Charge recorded as a result of KFTC levied fine Charge Recorded Resulting From KFTC Levied Fine The change recorded as a result of the fine levied by the Korea Fair Trade Commission. Number of hearing days to date The number of hearing days that the Japan Fair Trade Commission has had to date related to the complaints alleging the Company's business practices are, in some way, a violation of Japanese law. Litigation Settlement Patent License And Other Related Items [Abstract] Broadcom settlement Company Settlement The settlement amount that Qualcomm agreed to pay Broadcom according to the Settlement and Patent License and Non-Assert Agreement with Broadcom. Paid portion of Broadcom settlement Paid portion of Company settlement The element represents the paid portion of the Broadcom settlement. Last payment date of the remaining payments of the Broadcom settlement Loss Contingency, Settlement Agreement, Terms Unpaid portion of Broadcom settlement Unpaid portion of Company settlement The element represents the unpaid portion of the Broadcom settlement. Pretax charge of Broadcom settlement Pretax charge of Company settlement This element represents the expense recognized by the entity related to the settlement Broadcom. Carrying value and fair value (net of imputed interest) of the Broadcom settlement liability Carrying value and fair value of the settlement liability This element represents the carrying value of the liability related to the Broadcom settlement, which also approximated fair value. Loans Payable Related to India BWA Spectrum [Abstract] India Spectrum Acquisition And Related Debt [Abstract] Initial loan interest rate (in hundredths) Short-term Debt, Percentage Bearing Fixed Interest Rate Initial loan payment date Initial Loan Payment Date This element represented the period during which the initial bank loan was payable in full. Date initial loan refinanced Date Initial Loan Refinanced This element represents the period during which the Company refinanced the initial loan. Interest rate spread percentage Interest Rate Spread Percentage This element represents the interest rate spread. The Company refinanced the loans with new loan agreements that bear interest at an annual rate based on the highest base rate among the bank lenders, which is reset quarterly, plus this spread. India BWA spectrum loans interest rate percentage Refinanced Loans Interest Rate Percentage The effective interest rate at the end of the reporting period. India BWA spectrum loan demanded for prepayment payment date Loan Demanded for Prepayment Payment Date The period during which the loans demanded for prepayment are payable in full. India BWA spectrum loans demanded for prepayment Amount of Loan Demanded for Prepayment The portion of loans outstanding at period end which have been demanded for prepayment by the lender. India BWA spectrum loans not subject to prepayment Amount of Loan Not Subject to Prepayment Demand The portion of loans outstanding at period end which are not subject to prepayment demand. India BWA spectrum loans not subject to prepayment payment date Refinanced Loans Payment Date This element represents the period during which the loans are payable in full. Lender prepayment demand period Lender Prepayment Demand Period This element represents the period in which the lenders have the right to demand prepayment of their portion of the outstanding loans. Carrying value of refinanced loans Short-term Bank Loans and Notes Payable Purchase Obligations [Abstract] Unconditional Purchase Obligations (Excluding Capital Stock Redemptions) [Abstract] Unrecorded noncancelable obligations for remainder of fiscal 2012 Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due within One Year Unrecorded noncancelable obligations for fiscal 2013 Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due within Two Years Unrecorded noncancelable obligations for fiscal 2014 Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due within Three Years Unrecorded noncancelable obligations for fiscal 2015 Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due within Four Years Unrecorded noncancelable obligations for fiscal 2016 Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due within Five Years Unrecorded noncancelable obligations thereafter Unrecorded noncancelable obligations for years after fifth anniversary The remaining amount of the fixed and determinable portion of an unrecorded unconditional purchase obligation on the fifth anniversary of the balance sheet date. Inventory purchase commitments for remainder of fiscal 2012 Inventory purchase commitments for the remainder of fiscal year The remaining amount of the fixed and determinable portion of an unrecorded unconditional inventory purchase obligation on the first anniversary of the balance sheet date Inventory purchase commitments for fiscal 2013 Inventory purchase commitments for fiscal The remaining amount of the fixed and determinable portion of an unrecorded unconditional inventory purchase obligation on the second anniversary of the balance sheet date Leases [Abstract] Low range of noncancelable operating lease terms Low Range Of Noncancelable Operating Lease Terms This element represents the low range of the terms of noncancelable operating leases. High range of noncancelable operating lease terms High Range Of Noncancelable Operating Lease Terms This element represents the high range of the terms of noncancelable operating leases. Expiration year of the longest capital lease Expiration year of the longest capital lease This element represents the expiration year of the longest capital leases. Low range of initial capital lease terms (in years) Low Range Of Initial Capital Lease Terms This element represents the low range of the initial terms of capital leases. High range of initial capital lease terms (in years) High Range Of Initial Capital Lease Terms This element represents the high range of the initial terms of capital leases. Maximum number of capital lease renewal options Maximum Number Of Capital Lease Renewal Options This element represents the maximum number of capital lease renewal options. Total capital lease asset expected to be written off due to restructuring plan at the end of the contractual lease term Capital Leases Remaining Lease Asset The total remaining capital lease asset. As a result of the restructuring plan, the Company does not intend to renew its existing cell site capital leases. Unless the Company is able to terminate the lease at an earlier date, at the end of the current contractual lease term for each capital lease, the remaining lease obligation and the related asset will be written off. Total capital lease obligation expected to be written off due to restructuring plan at the end of the contractual lease term Capital Leases Remaining Lease Obligation The total remaining capital lease obligation. As a result of the restructuring plan, the Company does not intend to renew its existing cell site capital leases. Unless the Company is able to terminate the lease at an earlier date, at the end of the current contractual lease term for each capital lease, the remaining lease obligation and the related asset will be written off. Note 11 - Marketable Securities Marketable Securities [Text Block] Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table] Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Axis] Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Name [Domain] Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items] Date of completed sale of spectrum Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Description and Timing of Disposal Proceeds from sale of spectrum Proceeds from Sale of Other Assets Gain in discontinued operations from sale of spectrum Gain (Loss) on Sale of Other Assets Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Income Statement Disclosures [Abstract] Disposal Group, Not Discontinued Operation, Income Statement Disclosures [Abstract] Revenues Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Revenue Income (loss) from discontinued operations Discontinued Operation, Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operation, before Income Tax Income tax benefit Discontinued Operation, Tax Effect of Discontinued Operation Discontinued operations, net of income taxes Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Classified Balance Sheet Disclosures [Abstract] Total carrying amount of assets of discontinued operations Assets of Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation Total carrying amount of liabilities of discontinued operations Liabilities of Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation Capital lease assets Capital lease liabilities Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Statement, Scenario [Axis] Statement, Scenario [Axis] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Operating Activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Net income Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Nonproduction Gain on sale of spectrum Goodwill impairment Goodwill, Impairment Loss Revenues related to non-monetary exchanges Revenues related to non-monetary exchanges The amount of revenue recognized during the period related to nonmonetary consideration received. As a noncash item, it is added to net income when calculating cash provided by (used in) operations using the indirect method. Income tax provision in excess of (less than) income tax payments Income tax provision (less than) in excess of income tax payments This element represents the income tax provision (less than) in excess of income tax payment. Non-cash portion of share-based compensation expense Share-based Compensation Incremental tax benefit from stock options exercised Excess Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation, Operating Activities Net realized gains on marketable securities and other investments Gain (Loss) on Sale of Investments Gains on derivative instruments Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Net impairment losses on marketable securities and other investments Other than Temporary Impairment Losses, Investments Other items, net Other Noncash Income (Expense) Changes in assets and liabilities, net of effects of acquisitions: Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract] Accounts receivable, net Increase (Decrease) in Receivables Inventories Increase (Decrease) in Inventories Other assets Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets Trade accounts payable Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable, Trade Payroll, benefits and other liabilities Increase (Decrease) in payroll, benefits and other liabilities The net change during the reporting period in the aggregate amount of pension, postretirement, workers' compensation, and other similar obligations and liabilities combined with the net change during the reporting period in other expenses incurred but not yet paid. This element should be used when there is no other more specific or appropriate element. Unearned revenues Increase (Decrease) in Deferred Revenue Net cash provided by operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Investing Activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract] Capital expenditures Payments to Acquire Productive Assets Advance payment on spectrum Payments to Acquire Other Productive Assets Purchases of available-for-sale securities Payments to Acquire Available-for-sale Securities Proceeds from sale of available-for-sale securities Proceeds from Sale of Available-for-sale Securities Purchases of trading securities Payments to Acquire Trading Securities Held-for-investment Proceeds from sale of trading securities Proceeds from Sale of Trading Securities Held-for-investment Purchases of other marketable securities Purchase of other marketable securities This element represents an investment in a debt mutual fund for which the entity elected the fair value option Increase in investment receivables Increase In Receivables For Settlement Of Investments Change in receivables related to amounts due to the company for redemptions of money market investments. The cash impact of such redemption requests is presented as an investing activity in the statement of cash flows. Atheros acquisition, net of cash acquired (Note 12) Atheros acquisition, net of cash acquired The cash outflow associated with the Atheros acquisition, net of cash acquired from the purchase. Acquisitions and other investments, net of cash acquired Other investments and acquisitions, net of cash acquired The cash outflow associated with the acquisition of a business, net of the cash acquired from the purchase and the cash outflow associated with other investments held by the entity for investment purposes not otherwise defined in the taxonomy. Change in collateral held under securities lending The net change during the period in the carrying amount (fair value) of securities held that had been pledged by counterparties under financing and lending arrangements, pursuant to which the entity has the right by agreement or custom to sell ore repledge such securities. Proceeds from Sale of Intangible Assets Other items, net Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities Net cash used by investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities Financing Activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract] Borrowing under loans payable Proceeds from Bank Debt Repayment of loans payable Repayments of Bank Debt Proceeds from issuance of common stock Proceeds from Issuance of Common Stock Proceeds from issuance of subsidiary shares to noncontrolling interests (Note 7) Proceeds from Noncontrolling Interests Repurchase and retirement of common stock Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock Dividends paid Payments of Dividends Change in obligation under securtities lending Change in obligation under securities lending The change in fair value of collateral received by the entity associated with securities borrowed that must be returned if the counterparty fulfills its obligations. The collateral appears on the balance sheet as a liability and has a corresponding asset that appears on the balance sheet called collateral held under securities lending. Other items, net Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities Net cash provided by financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Effect of exchange rate changes on cash Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents Net increase in cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Cash and cash equivalents at end of period Share-based Compensation, Allocation and Classification in Financial Statements [Abstract] Cost of equipment and services revenues Cost of equipment and services revenues This element represents the cost of equipment and services revenues recognized during the period arising from share-based compensation arrangements (for example, shares of stock, stock options or other equity instruments) with employees, directors and certain consultants qualifying for treatment as employees. Research and development Research and development This element represents the research and development expenses recognized during the period arising from share-based compensation arrangements (for example, shares of stock, stock options or other equity instruments) with employees, directors and certain consultants qualifying for treatment as employees. Selling, general and administrative Selling, general and administrative This element represents the selling, general and administrative expenses recognized during the period arising from share-based compensation arrangements (for example, shares of stock, stock options or other equity instruments) with employees, directors and certain consultants qualifying for treatment as employees. Continuing operations Allocated share-based compensation expense from continuing operations The expense recognized in income from continuing operations, before income taxes, during the period arising from share-based compensation arrangements (for example, shares of stock, stock options or other equity instruments) with employees, directors and certain consultants qualifying for treatment as employees. Related income tax benefit Employee service share-based compensation tax benefit from compensation expense from continuing operations The recognized tax benefit related to compensation cost for share-based payment arrangements recognized in income from continuing operations during the period. Continuing operations, net of income taxes Share-based compensation expense net of income taxes from continuing operations The expense recognized in income from continuing operations, net of income taxes, during the period arising from share-based compensation arrangements (for example, shares of stock, stock options or other equity instruments) with employees, directors and certain consultants qualifying for treatment as employees. Discontinued operations Allocated share-based compensation expense from discontinued operations The expense recognized in income (loss) from discontinued operations, before income taxes, during the period arising from share-based compensation arrangements (for example, shares of stock, stock options or other equity instruments) with employees, directors and certain consultants qualifying for treatment as employees. Related income tax benefit Employee service share-based compensation tax benefit from compensation expense from discontinued operations The recognized tax benefit related to compensation cost for share-based payment arrangements recognized in income (loss) from discontinued operations during the period. Discontinued operations, net of income taxes Share-based compensation expense net of income taxes from discontinued operations The expense recognized in income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of income taxes, during the period arising from share-based compensation arrangements (for example, shares of stock, stock options or other equity instruments) with employees, directors and certain consultants qualifying for treatment as employees. Share-based compensation expense, net of income taxes Share-based compensation expense, net of income taxes Represents the expense recognized during the period, net of tax, arising from share-based compensation arrangements (for example, shares of stock, stock options or other equity instruments) with employees, directors and certain consultants qualifying for treatment as employees Note 3 - Investment Income, Net Investment income (loss), net [Text Block] This item represents the disclosure related to the interest and dividend income derived from investments in debt and equity securities and on cash and cash equivalents and realized and unrealized gains and losses reported in the statement of income which have resulted from the sale and holding of marketable securities, respectively, as well as the sale or disposal of cost and equity method investments. Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table] Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Axis] Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Name [Domain] Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items] Schedule of Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures [Table Text Block] Schedule of Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures [Table Text Block] Note 8 - Discontinued Operations Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Disclosure [Text Block] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Abstract] Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring Basis [Table] Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring Basis [Table] Summarization of information required and determined to be disclosed concerning assets and liabilities, including [financial] instruments that are classified in stockholders' equity, which are measured at fair value on a recurring basis. Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Disclosure Items [Axis] Fair value, assets and liabilities measured on recurring basis, disclosure items [Axis] This element represents a number of concepts which are required or desirable disclosure items concerning assets and liabilities, including [financial] instruments that are classified in stockholders' equity, which are measured at fair value on a recurring basis. Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Disclosure Items [Domain] Fair value, assets and liabilities measured on recurring basis, disclosure items [Domain] Provides the general information items required or determined to be disclosed with respect to assets and liabilities, including [financial] instruments that are classified in stockholders' equity, which are measured at fair value on a recurring basis. Level 1 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Level 2 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Level 3 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring Basis Financial Statement Captions [Line Items] Line items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table. Assets [Abstract] Cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure Marketable Securities [Abstract] U.S. Treasury securities and government-related securities Marketable Securities US Treasury Securities And Government Related Securities This category includes investments in debt securities issued by the US Department of the Treasury, US Government Agencies and US Government-sponsored Enterprises. May include treasury bills (short-term maturities - one year or less), treasury notes (intermediate term maturities - two to ten years), treasury bonds (long-term maturities - ten to thirty years), debt securities issued by Ginnie Mae and debt securities issued by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac. Corporate bonds and notes This category includes information about debt securities that are issued by either a domestic or foreign corporate business entity with a promise of repayment Mortgage- and asset-backed securities Mortgage And Asset Backed Securities This category includes information about securities that are primarily serviced by the cash flows of a discrete pool of receivables or other financial assets (such as mortgage loans or credit-card receivables) Auction rate securities Securities that are debt instruments (corporate or municipal bonds) that typically have long-term nominal maturities for which the interest rate is reset through an auction process. It could also refer to a preferred stock for which the dividend is reset through the same type of auction process Non-investment-grade debt securities Non Investment Grade Debt Securities This category includes information about debt securities that have non-investment grade ratings. Common and preferred stock This category includes information about ownership interests or the right to acquire ownership interests in corporations and other legal entities which ownership interest is represented by shares of common or preferred stock (which is neither mandatorily redeemable nor redeemable at the option of the holder), convertible securities, stock rights, or stock warrants. Equity mutual and exchange-traded funds Equity Mutual And Exchange Traded Funds This category includes information about investments that pool funds from many investors to invest in a combination of underlying investments (primarily equity investments) and investments that follows an index, commodity or basket of assets that trades like on a stock on an exchange. Debt mutual funds This category includes information about investments in debt securities which are not otherwise provided for in the existing taxonomy in the form of Domain Members or individual elements Total marketable securities Investments, Fair Value Disclosure Derivative instruments Derivative Assets Other investments Other Investment Measured On Recurring Basis This element represents a certain statement of financial position asset caption which represents a class of assets, or which may include an individual asset, measured at fair value on a recurring basis. Currently it is comprised of the assets related to the Company's deferred compensation plan, which are invested in mutual funds. Total assets measured at fair value Total assets measured at fair value The aggregate amount of assets, including [financial] instruments that are classified in stockholders' equity, which are measured at fair value on either a recurring or nonrecurring basis. Liabilities [Abstract] Derivative instruments Derivative Financial Instruments, Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure Other liabilities Other Liabilities Measured On Recurring Basis This element represents a certain statement of financial position liability caption which represents a class of liabilities, or which may include an individual liability, measured at fair value on a recurring basis. Currently it is comprised of the Company's deferred compensation plan liabilities. Total liabilities measured at fair value Total liabilities measured at fair value The aggregate amount of liabilities, including [financial] instruments that are classified in stockholders' equity, which are measured at fair value on either a recurring or nonrecurring basis. Total Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Other comprehensive income: Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Foreign currency translation Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax Noncredit other-than-temporary impairment losses and subsequent changes in fair value related to certain available-for-sale debt securities, net of income taxes Other than Temporary Impairment Losses and Subsequent Changes in Fair Value, Investments, Portion in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent This element represents other-than-temporary impairments on certain debt securities associated with non-credit factors that are recorded in other comprehensive income, net of tax, combined with appreciation or loss in value, net of tax, of certain unsold marketable debt securities. Net unrealized gains on other available-for-sale securities and derivative instruments, net of income taxes Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) on Securities Arising During Period, Net of Tax Reclassification of net realized gains on available-for-sale securities and derivative instruments included in net income, net of income taxes Reclassification of net realized (gains) losses on marketable securities and derivative instruments included in net income, net of income taxes Reclassification adjustment for unrealized gains or losses realized upon the sale of marketable securities, net of tax, combined with change in accumulated gains (losses) from derivative instruments classified as hedges. Reclassification of other-than-temporary losses on available-for-sale securities included in net income, net of income taxes Reclassification of Other Than Temporary Losses on Marketable Securities Included in Net Income Net of Income Taxes Reclassification adjustment for other-than-temporary losses on marketable securities include in net income, net of income taxes Total other comprehensive income Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Total comprehensive income Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interests Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Comprehensive income attributable to Qualcomm Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Note 6 - Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Abstract] Schedule for Marketable Securities Classified Within Level 3 [Table] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table] Fair Value by Asset Class [Axis] Fair Value by Asset Class [Axis] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, by Asset Class [Domain] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, by Asset Class [Domain] Auction Rate Securities [Member] Other Marketable Securities [Member] Other marketable securities [Member] This category includes information about marketable securities which are not otherwise provided for in the existing taxonomy in the form of Domain Members or individual elements. Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items] Assets, Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract] Activity for Marketable Securities Classified Within Level 3 of the Valuation Hierarchy [Roll Forward] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward] Beginning balance of Level 3 Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset Value Total realized and unrealized gains or losses [Abstract] Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Purchases, Sales, Issuances, Settlements [Abstract] Included in investment income, net Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings Included in other comprehensive income Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Gain (Loss) Included in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Issuances Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis,Asset, Issues Purchases Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Purchases Settlements Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Settlements Transfers out of Level 3 Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Transfers out of Level 3 Transfers into Level 3 Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset Transfers Into Level 3 Ending balance of Level 3 Note 5 - Stockholders' Equity Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block] Note 10 - Fair Value Measurements Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Stock repurchase program [Abstract] Share-based Compensation [Abstract] Shares repurchased and retired, shares Stock Repurchased and Retired During Period, Shares Shares repurchased and retired, value Authorized dollar amount of repurchase of common stock under current stock repurchase program Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount Authorized dollar amount of repurchase of common stock under prior stock repurchase program Prior Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount The amount authorized for repurchase under the prior stock repurchase program. Authorized dollar amount remaining available under prior stock repurchase program, net of put options outstanding Prior Stock Repurchase Program, Remaining Authorized Repurchase Amount The remaining repurchase amount authorized by an entity's Board of Directors under a prior stock repurchase plan. Authorized dollar amount remaining available under current stock repurchase program, net of put options outstanding Stock Repurchase Program, Remaining Authorized Repurchase Amount Option Indexed to Issuer's Equity, Indexed Shares Value, net of premiums received, of outstanding options indexed to issuers equity Value, net of premiums received, of outstanding options indexed to issuers equity The maximum value, net of premiums received, of the settlement of the outstanding put options sold by the Company on its stock. Premiums received from put option derivative instruments Proceeds from Derivative Instrument, Financing Activities Put option contracts derivative liabilities at fair value Foreign currency put option contracts derivative liabilities at fair value Fair value as of the balance sheet date of foreign currency put option contracts derivative liabilities, which includes all such derivative instruments in hedging and nonhedging relationships that are recorded in other current liabilities on the balance sheet. Gain on put option derivatives recorded in net investment income Gain Loss On Put Options Derivatives Recorded in Earnings, Net Recognized gains/losses on change in fair value of put options sold in connection with the Company's stock repurchase program. Dividends [Abstract] Dividends charged to retained earnings - per share Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Declared Amount of increased common stock dividends per share announced Amount of Increased Common Stock Dividends per Share Announced An announcement of the increased expected future quarterly cash dividend per share of common stock outstanding. Dividends Payable, Date Declared, Day, Month and Year Dividends Payable, Date to be Paid, Day, Month and Year Dividends Payable, Date of Record, Day, Month and Year Dividends charged to retained earnings - total Dividends, Common Stock, Cash Marketable Securities, Trading Securities Marketable Securities, Trading Securities, Policy [Policy Text Block] Accounts Receivable, Net [Abstract] Trade, net of allowances for doubtful accounts of $2 and $2, respectively Trade, net of allowances Amount due from customers or clients for goods or services that have been delivered or sold in the normal course of business, reduced to the estimated net realizable fair value by an allowance established by the entity of the amount it deems uncertain of collection. Long-term contracts Contracts Receivable Other Other Receivables Accounts receivable, net Accounts Receivable, Net, Current Allowance for doubtful accounts Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current Number of QWI aggregated divisions Number Of Aggregated Divisions The number of divisions the Company aggregates into the Qualcomm Wireless and Internet segment (QWI). QWI is comprised of: Qualcomm Internet Services (QIS), Qualcomm Government Technologies (QGOV), Qualcomm Enterprise Services (QES), and Firethorn. Number of QSI aggregated divisions Number of QSI Aggregated Divisions The number of divisions the Company aggregates into the Qualcomm Strategic Initiatives (QSI). QSI is comprised of: Qualcomm Ventures, Structured Finance and Strategic Investments and FLO TV. Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Statement, Business Segments [Axis] Segment [Domain] Revenues, EBT, and Assets for reportable segments [Line Items] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Unallocated cost of equipment and services revenue resulting from acquisitions Unallocated cost of equipment and services revenues Amount of cost of equipment and services revenue that are not allocated to segments and are therefore included in the reconciliation of total profit or loss from reportable segments to the entity's consolidated income before income taxes. Unallocated selling, general and administrative expenses resulting from acquisitions Unallocated selling, general and administrative expenses Amount of selling, general and administrative expenses that are not allocated to segments and are therefore included in the reconciliation of total profit or loss from reportable segments to the entity's consolidated income before income taxes. FLO TV assets included in QSI's assets Multimedia Operator Subsidiary Assets Included In Reportable Segment This element represents the aggregate amount of assets related to the discontinued FLO TV business that are included in the entity's QSI reportable segment. QMT assets included in reconciling items QMT Division Assets Included in Reconciling Items This element represents the aggregate amount of assets related to the QMT division that are included in reconciling items for total assets. Effective ownership interest in debt mutual fund (fair value option) Effective Ownership Interest In Debt Mutual Fund Fair Value Option This element represents the effective ownership interest in debt mutual fund for which the entity elected fair value option. Increases in fair value of debt mutual fund (fair value option) Changes In Fair Value Of Debt Mutual Fund Fair Value Option This element represents the changes in fair value of debt mutual fund for which the entity elected fair value option. Debt securities classified as trading, unrealized holding gain Trading Securities, Change in Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) Expiration date of time deposits Expiration Date Of Time Deposits This element represents the expiration date of time deposits. Components of investment income, net [Abstract] Components of investment (loss) income, net [Abstract] Interest and dividend income Investment Income, Interest and Dividend Interest expense Interest Expense Net realized gains on marketable securities Marketable Securities Realized Gain Loss Excluding Impairments This item represents the total realized gain (loss) included in earnings for the period as a result of selling marketable securities categorized as trading, available-for-sale, or held-to-maturity. This item does not include any losses recognized for other than temporary impairments of the subject investments in debt and equity securities, or the noncredit portion of losses on debt securities recognized in other comprehensive income. Net realized gains on other investments Gain (Loss) on Sale of Other Investments Impairment losses on marketable securities Marketable Securities Realized Gain Loss Other Than Temporary Impairments Adjusted This element represents the amount of loss recognized for other than temporary impairments of investments in debt and equity securities excluding the noncredit portion of impairment losses on debt securities, which is recognized in other comprehensive income. Impairment losses on other investments Impairment losses on other investments This element represents losses recognized for other-than-temporary impairments on investments accounted for under the cost and equity methods of accounting. Gains on derivative instruments Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Derivative, Net Equity in losses of investees Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments Investment income, net Investment income (loss), net Represents investment income from investments in debt and equity securities consisting of interest and dividend income, income/expense derived from the amortization of investment related discounts or premiums, net of related investment expenses, realized gains or losses on the sale or holding of investments required to be included in earnings for the period, other than temporary losses, interest expense, gains or losses on derivative instruments, and equity in earnings or losses of investees. Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table] Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table] Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, by Antidilutive Securities [Axis] Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain] Stock Options [Member] Written Put Option [Member] Incremental common shares attributable to written put options that were not included in diluted earnings per share (EPS) because to do so would increase EPS amounts or decrease loss per share amounts for the period presented. Other Common Stock Equivalents [Member] Other common stock equivalents [Member] Incremental common shares attributable to other common share equivalents that were not included in diluted earnings per share (EPS) because to do so would increase EPS amounts or decrease loss per share amounts for the period presented. Restricted Stock [Member] Performance-based stock units [Member] Incremental common shares attributable to performance based stock units that were not included in diluted earnings per share (EPS) because to do so would increase EPS amounts or decrease loss per share amounts for the period presented. A share-based payment arrangement is an arrangement in which one or more employees receive shares of stock, stock options, or other equity instruments, or the employer incurs a liability(ies) to the employee(s) in amounts based on the price of the employer's stock. Equity compensation plans [Member] The Board of Directors may grant options to selected employees, directors and consultants to the Company to purchase shares of the Company's common stock at a price not less than the fair market value of the stock at the date of grant. Employee stock purchase plans [Member] The Company has one employee stock purchase plan for eligible employees to purchase shares of common stock. Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items] Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items] Antidilutive securities excluded from computation of EPS Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount Noncredit other-than-temporary impairment losses and subsequent changes in fair value related to certain available-for-sale debt securities, net of income taxes Other than Temporary Impairment Losses and Subsequent Changes in Fair Value, Investments, Portion in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent This element represents other-than-temporary impairments on certain debt securities associated with non-credit factors that are recorded in other comprehensive income, net of tax, combined with appreciation or loss in value, net of tax, of certain unsold marketable debt securities. Net unrealized gains on other available-for-sale securities, net of income taxes Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, Net of Tax Net unrealized gains (losses) on derivative instruments, net of income taxes Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cumulative Changes in Net Gain (Loss) from Cash Flow Hedges, Effect Net of Tax Foreign currency translation Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax Total accumulated other comprehensive income Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Domain] Class of Stock [Domain] ASSETS Current assets: Assets, Current [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Marketable securities Marketable Securities, Current Accounts receivable, net Inventories Inventory, Net Deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Current Other current assets Other Assets, Current Total current assets Assets, Current Marketable securities Marketable Securities, Noncurrent Deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Noncurrent Assets held for sale Assets Held-for-sale, Long Lived Property, plant and equipment, net Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Goodwill Other intangible assets, net Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) Other assets Other Assets, Noncurrent Total assets Assets LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Current liabilities: Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Trade accounts payable Accounts Payable, Current Payroll and other benefits related liabilities Employee-related Liabilities, Current Unearned revenues Deferred Revenue, Current Loans payable Income taxes payable Accrued Income Taxes, Current Other current liabilities Other Liabilities, Current Total current liabilities Liabilities, Current Unearned revenues Deferred Revenue, Noncurrent Other liabilities Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Total liabilities Liabilities Commitments and contingencies (Note 6) Commitments and Contingencies Stockholders' equity: Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Qualcomm stockholders' equity: Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Preferred stock, $0.0001 par value; 8 shares authorized; none outstanding Preferred Stock, Value, Issued Common stock, $0.0001 par value; 6,000 shares authorized; 1,711 and 1,681 shares issued and outstanding, respectively Common Stock, Value, Issued Paid-in capital Additional Paid in Capital Retained earnings Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Accumulated other comprehensive income Total Qualcomm stockholders' equity Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Noncontrolling interests Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total stockholders' equity Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total liabilities and stockholders' equity Liabilities and Equity Income Statement [Abstract] Revenues: Revenues [Abstract] Equipment and services Aggregate revenue during the period from equipment and services rendered in the normal course of business, after deducting allowances and discounts and the aggregate revenue during the period from the sale of goods in the normal course of business, after deducting returns, allowances and discounts. Licensing Licensing and royalty fees Revenue earned during the period relating to consideration received from another party for the right to use, but not own, certain of the entity's intangible assets. Licensing arrangements include, but are not limited to, rights to use a patent, copyright, technology, manufacturing process, software or trademark. Licensing fees are generally, but not always, fixed as to amount and not dependent upon the revenue generated by the licensing party. An entity may receive licensing fees for licenses that also generate royalty payments to the entity and revenue earned during the period from the leasing or otherwise lending to a third party the entity's rights or title to certain property. Royalty revenue is derived from a percentage or stated amount of sales proceeds or revenue generated by the third party using the entity's property. Examples of property from which royalties may be derived include patents and oil and mineral rights. Total revenues Revenues Operating expenses: Operating Expense Total [Abstract] Generally recurring costs associated with normal operations includes cost of sales or services, research and development expense and selling, general and administrative expense. Cost of equipment and services revenues Cost of Revenue Research and development Research and Development Expense Selling, general and administrative Selling, General and Administrative Expense Other Other Cost and Expense, Operating Total operating expenses Total operating expenses Generally recurring costs associated with normal operations includes cost of sales or services, research and development expense and selling, general and administrative expense. Operating income Operating Income (Loss) Investment income, net (Note 3) Income from continuing operations before income taxes Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest Income tax expense Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Income from continuing operations Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Discontinued operations, net of income taxes (Note 8) Net income Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net income attributable to Qualcomm Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Basic earnings (loss) per share attributable to Qualcomm: Earnings Per Share, Basic [Abstract] Continuing operations Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Basic Share Discontinued operations Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Basic Share Net income Earnings Per Share, Basic Diluted earnings (loss) per share attributable to Qualcomm: Earnings Per Share, Diluted [Abstract] Continuing operations Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Diluted Share Discontinued operations Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Diluted Share Net income Earnings Per Share, Diluted Shares used in per share calculations: Basic Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Diluted Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Dividends per share announced Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table] Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Axis] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Axis] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Contract termination costs [Member] Contract Termination [Member] Other costs [Member] Other Costs [Member] Other costs associated with exit from or disposal of business activities or restructurings pursuant to a plan. Restructuring and Related Cost [Line Items] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] Restructuring accrual Restructuring Reserve Payments on amounts previously accrued Restructuring Reserve, Settled with Cash Accounts receivable Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table Text Block] Inventories Schedule of Inventory, Current [Table Text Block] Property, plant and equipment Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block] Other current liabilities Schedule of other liabilities [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of the carrying amounts of other liabilities. Capital and operating leases [Abstract] Capital and operating leases [Abstract] Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due [Abstract] Remainder of fiscal 2012 - Capital leases Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Current 2013 - Capital leases Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Two Years 2014 - Capital leases Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Three Years 2015 - Capital leases Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Four Years 2016 - Capital leases Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Five Years Thereafter - Capital leases Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Thereafter Total minimum lease payments - Capital leases Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Deduct: Amounts representing interest - Capital leases Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Interest Included in Payments Present value of minimum lease payments - Capital leases Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Present Value of Net Minimum Payments Deduct: Current portion of capital lease obligations Capital Lease Obligations, Current Long-term portion of capital lease obligations Capital Lease Obligations, Noncurrent Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due [Abstract] Remainder of fiscal 2012 - Operating leases Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Current 2013 - Operating leases Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years 2014 - Operating leases Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years 2015 - Operating leases Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years 2016 - Operating leases Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years Thereafter - Operating leases Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter Total minimum lease payments - Operating leases Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Total Capital and Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due [Abstract] Total capital and operating leases, future minimum payments due [Abstract] Remainder of fiscal 2012 - Total Total - Future minimum payment due - Current This element represents the total minimum lease payments, due within one year of the balance sheet date 2013 - Total Total - Future minimum payment due - Due in two years This element represents the total minimum lease payments, due within the second year from the balance sheet date 2014 - Total Total - Future minimum payment due - Due in three years This element represents the total minimum lease payments, due within the third year from the balance sheet date 2015 - Total Total - Future minimum payment due - Due in four years This element represents the total minimum lease payments, due within the fourth year from the balance sheet date 2016 - Total Total - Future minimum payment due - Due in five years This element represents the total minimum lease payments, due within the fifth year from the balance sheet date Thereafter - Total Total - Future minimum payment due - Due thereafter This element represents the total minimum lease payments, after the fifth year from the balance sheet date Total minimum lease payments - Total Total - Future minimum payment due This element represents the total minimum lease payments Note 9 - Acquisitions Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block] Note 4 - Income Taxes Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Increase in gross technology-based intangible assets An explanation of any significant addition to gross technology-based intangible assets during the reporting period. Segment Information [Abstract] Segment Information [Abstract] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Statement, Business Segments [Axis] Segment [Domain] Operating Segments [Member] QCT QCT [Member] A component of the entity for which there is an accounting requirement to report separate financial information on that component in the entity's financial statements. QTL QTL [Member] A component of the entity for which there is an accounting requirement to report separate financial information on that component in the entity's financial statements. QWI QWI [Member] A component of the entity for which there is an accounting requirement to report separate financial information on that component in the entity's financial statements. QSI QSI [Member] A component of the entity for which there is an accounting requirement to report separate financial information on that component in the entity's financial statements. Reconciling Items [Member] Significant Reconciling Items [Member] Other nonreportable segments [Member] Other Nonreportable Segments [Member] Aggregate amount of revenues of other nonreportable segments in the reconciliation of total revenues from reportable segments to the entity's consolidated revenues. Elimination of intersegment revenues [Member] Intersegment Elimination [Member] Unallocated cost of equipment and services revenues [Member] UnallocatedCostOfEquipmentAndServicesRevenue [Member] Amount of cost of equipment and services revenue that are not allocated to segments and are therefore included in the reconciliation of total profit or loss from reportable segments to the entity's consolidated income before income taxes. Unallocated research and development expenses [Member] Unallocated Research And Development Expenses [Member] Amount of research and development expenses that are not allocated to segments and are therefore included in the reconciliation of total profit or loss from reportable segments to the entity's consolidated income before income taxes. Unallocated selling, general and administrative expenses [Member] Unallocated Selling General And Administrative Expenses [Member] Amount of selling, general and administrative expenses that are not allocated to segments and are therefore included in the reconciliation of total profit or loss from reportable segments to the entity's consolidated income before income taxes. Unallocated investment income, net [Member] Unallocated Investment Income Loss Net [Member] Amount of net investment income (loss) that is not allocated to segments and is therefore included in the reconciliation of total profit or loss from reportable segments to the entity's consolidated income before income taxes. Other nonreportable segments [Member] Other Nonreportable Segments EBT [Member] Amount related to other nonreportable segments in the reconciliation of total profit or loss from reportable segments to the entity's consolidated income before income taxes. Intersegment eliminations [Member] Intersegment Eliminations [Member] Amount related to intracompany eliminations in the reconciliation of total profit or loss from reportable segments to the entity's consolidated income before income taxes. Revenues EBT Income before income taxes Sum of operating income and nonoperating income (expense) before income taxes including income (loss) from equity method investments. Assets Segment Reporting Information, Operating Income (Loss) [Abstract] Revenue from external customers Revenue from External Customers Intersegment revenues Segment Reporting Information, Intersegment Revenue Change in Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Change in Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Statement, Equity Components [Axis] Total Stockholders' Equity [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Qualcomm Stockholders' Equity [Member] Parent [Member] Noncontrolling Interests [Member] Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Balance at beginning period Net income (loss) Other comprehensive income (loss) Common stock issued under employee benefit plans and the related tax benefits, net of shares withheld for tax Stock Issued During Period, Value, New Issues Share-based compensation Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Share-based Compensation, Requisite Service Period Recognition Dividends Stock repurchases Stock Repurchased and Retired During Period, Value Other Stockholders' Equity, Other Balance at ending period Total comprehensive income Schedule of Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Components of accumulated other comprehensive income Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Share-based compensation expense, related to all share-based awards Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Table Text Block] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Technology-based [Member] Technology-based [Member] The exclusive legal right granted to the entity to exploit the technology for a period of time. IPR&D [Member] In Process Research and Development [Member] In-process research and development intangible assets Non-reportable segment [Member] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation [Abstract] Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation [Abstract] Number of businesses acquired (in businesses) Number of Businesses Acquired Cash consideration paid for businesses acquired Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity, Cash Paid Acquired technology-based intangible assets Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Asset, Amount Weighted-average useful life of intangible assets acquired (in years) Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Asset, Weighted Average Useful Life Acquired in-process research and development (IPR&D) Business Acquisition Purchase Price Allocation In-process Research and Development The amount of acquisition cost of a business combination allocated to in-process research and development. Number of in-process research and development projects (in projects) Number of In-process research and development projects The number of in-process research and development projects acquired in a business combination. Acquired in-process research and development estimated completion period (in years) In-process research and development estimated completion period The period over which in-process research and development projects acquired in a business combination are expected to be completed, as of the balance sheet date. Goodwill recognized from businesses acquired, expected to be deductible for tax purposes Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Goodwill, Expected Tax Deductible Amount Acquisitions [Abstract] Goodwill Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Goodwill Amount Other Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Customer incentives and other customer-related liabilities Customer-related liabilities, including incentives, rebates and other liabilities Carrying value as of the balance sheet date of any customer-related liabilities, including customer incentives, rebates and other accrued liabilities. Current portion of payable to Broadcom (Note 6) Current Portion Of Payable For Litigation Settlement Carrying value as of the balance sheet date of obligations incurred and payable arising from Broadcom litigation settlement, which is expected to be paid within one year. Payable for unsettled securities trades The amount related to purchases of securities that have not been settled as of the reporting date. Other Other Accrued Liabilities, Current Other current liabilities Schedule of Marketable Securities [Table] Schedule of marketable securities [Table] Summarization of information required and determined to be disclosed concerning Marketable Securities which consist of all investments in certain debt and equity securities that are classified Available-for-sale, trading or held-to-maturity securities. Schedule of Marketable Securities, Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Axis] Schedule of marketable securities, major types of debt and equity securities [Axis] This element represents a number of concepts which capture the general categories of investments which may be classified as Available-for-sale, trading or held-to-maturity. The information required and determined to be disclosed may be organized in relation to these categories or to additional categories or specific debt and equity investments not otherwise captured by the categories provided. Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Domain] U.S. Treasury securities and government-related securities [Member] US Treasury and Government [Member] Corporate bonds and notes [Member] Corporate Debt Securities [Member] Mortgage- and asset-backed securities [Member] Asset-backed Securities [Member] Auction rate securities [Member] Non-investment-grade debt securities [Member] This category includes information about debt securities that have non-investment grade ratings. Common and preferred stock [Member] category includes information about ownership interests or the right to acquire ownership interests in corporations and other legal entities which ownership interest is represented by shares of common or preferred stock (which is neither mandatorily redeemable no redeemable at the option of the holder). Equity mutual funds and exchange-traded funds [Member] This category includes information about investments that pool funds from many investors to invest in a combination of underlying investments (primarily equities) and investments that follows an index, commodity or basket of assets that trade on a stock exchange. Debt mutual funds [Member] Other Debt Obligations [Member] Equity securities [Member] Equity Securities [Member] Debt securities [Member] Debt Securities [Member] Schedule of Marketable Securities [Line Items] Schedule of marketable securities [Line Items] Line items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table. Trading Securities [Abstract] Trading Securities - Current Trading Securities, Current Trading Securities - Noncurrent Trading Securities, Noncurrent Financial instruments that are bought and held principally for the purpose of selling them and which are intended to be sold or mature more than one year from the balance sheet date or operating cycle, if longer, or for debt and equity securities formerly categorized as available-for-sale or held-to-maturity which the entity held as of the date it opted to account for such securities at fair value. An enterprise may also categorize such a security as trading without the intent to sell it in the near term assuming the decision to categorize the security as trading occurred at acquisition. Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract] Available-for-sale - Current Available-for-sale Securities, Current Available-for-sale - Noncurrent Available-for-sale Securities, Noncurrent Fair Value Option [Abstract] Fair value option [Abstract] Debt mutual fund - Current Debt Mutual Fund Current This element represents an investment in a debt mutual fund for which the entity elected the fair value option, the portion of which is intended to be sold or mature within one year from the balance sheet date or the normal operating cycle, whichever is longer. Debt mutual fund - Noncurrent Debt Mutual Fund Noncurrent This element represents an investment in a debt mutual fund for which the entity elected the fair value option, the portion of which is intended to be sold or mature more than one year from the balance sheet date or operating cycle, if longer. Time deposits - Current Time Deposit Maturities, Year One Time deposits - Noncurrent Time Deposits, Noncurrent Marketable Securities - Current Marketable Securities - Noncurrent Contractual maturities of available-for-sale debt securities [Abstract] Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Fair Value [Abstract] Years to Maturity - Less Than One Year Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, within One Year, Fair Value Years to Maturity - One to Five Years Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, after One Through Five Years, Fair Value Years to Maturity - Five to Ten Years Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, after Five Through Ten Years, Fair Value Years to Maturity - Greater Than Ten Years Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, after Ten Years, Fair Value Years to Maturity - No Single Maturity Date Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, without Single Maturity Date, Fair Value Total Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Securities Realized Gains and Losses on Sales of Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract] Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Realized Gain (Loss) [Abstract] Gross Realized Gains Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Realized Gains Gross Realized Losses Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Realized Losses Net Realized Gains Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Realized Gain (Loss) Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract] Available-for-sale Securities, Balance Sheet, Reported Amounts [Abstract] Cost Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis Unrealized Gains Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains Unrealized Losses Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses Fair Value Available-for-sale Securities Investments Classified as Available-for-sale in a Continuous Unrealized Loss Position Deemed to be Temporary [Abstract] Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position [Abstract] Less than 12 months - Fair Value Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value Less than 12 months - Unrealized Losses Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses More than 12 months - Fair Value Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value More than 12 months - Unrealized Losses Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses Activity for Credit Loss Portion of Other-than-temporary Impairments on Debt Securities [Roll Forward] Credit Loss Portion Of Other Than Temporary Impairments On Debt Securities [Roll Forward] A roll forward is a reconciliation of a concept from the beginning of a period to the end of a period. Beginning balance of credit losses Other than Temporary Impairment, Credit Losses Recognized in Earnings, Credit Losses on Debt Securities Held Reductions in credit losses related to securities the Company intends to sell Other Than Temporary Impairment Credit Losses Recognized In Earnings Reductions Securities Available For Sale This item represents reductions in the cumulative amount of other than temporary impairment due to credit loss that has been recognized in earnings during the period related to impaired securities the Company intends to sell. Additional credit losses recognized on securities previously impaired Other Than Temporary Impairment Credit Losses Recognized In Earnings Additions Previously Impaired Debt Securities This item represents an increase to the cumulative amount of credit losses recognized in earnings for an other than temporary impairment of a debt security held for which other than temporary impairment was previously recognized. Credit losses recognized on securities previously not impaired Other than Temporary Impairment, Credit Losses Recognized in Earnings, Additions, No Previous Impairment Reductions in credit losses related to securities sold Other than Temporary Impairment, Credit Losses Recognized in Earnings, Reductions, Securities Sold Accretion of credit losses due to an increase in cash flows expected to be collected Other than Temporary Impairment, Credit Losses Recognized in Earnings, Reductions, Cash Flows Ending balance of credit losses Future minimum lease payments for all capital leases and operating leases Schedule of leases of lessee [Table Text Block] Disclosure of lessee entity's leasing arrangements including, but not limited to, all the following: (a.) The basis on which contingent rental payments are determined, (b.) The existence and terms of renewal or purchase options and escalation clauses, (c.) Restrictions imposed by lease agreements, such as those concerning dividends, additional debt, and further leasing. Capital leases, remaining lease assets and obligation Capital Leases Remaining Lease Assets And Obligation [Text Block] Disclosure of the remaining lease assets and remaining lease obligation for capital leases, for each of the subsequent five years and in total thereafter. As a result of the restructuring plan, the Company does not intend to renew its existing cell site capital leases. Unless the Company is able to terminate the lease at an earlier date, at the end of the current contractual lease term for each capital lease, the remaining lease obligation and the related asset will be written off. Cash Equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Note 7 - Segment Information Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule for Other Liabilities Classified Within Level 3 [Table] Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table] Fair Value by Liability Class [Axis] Fair Value by Liability Class [Axis] Fair Value, Liabilities, Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, by Liability Class [Domain] Fair Value, Liabilities, Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, by Liability Class [Domain] Other Liabilities [Member] Other Liabilities [Member] Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items] Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items] Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract] Activity for Other Liabilities Classified Within Level 3 of the Valuation Hierarchy [Roll Forward] Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward] Beginning balance of Level 3 Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliations, Recurring Basis, Liability Value Total realized and unrealized gains or losses [Abstract] Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Liability, Purchases, Sales, Issuances, Settlements [Abstract] Included in investment income, net Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Liability, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings Included in other comprehensive income Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Liability, Gain (Loss) Included in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Issuances Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Liability, Issues Purchases Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Liability, Purchases Settlements Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Liability, Settlements Transfers out of Level 3 Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Liability, Transfers out of Level 3 Transfers into Level 3 Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Liability, Transfers Into Level 3 Ending balance of Level 3 Note 1 - Basis of Presentation Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block] Note 2 - Composition of Certain Financial Statement Items Composition Of Certain Financial Statement Captions [Text Block] This item represents the disclosure of the components of certain financial statement captions, including but not limited to, accounts receivable, inventories, property, plant, and equipment, goodwill and other intangible assets, and other current liabilities. Nonrecurring Fair Value Measurements [Abstract] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Abstract] Goodwill balance prior to impairment for Firethorn reporting unit Goodwill Balance Prior To Impairment For Firethorn Reporting Unit Carrying amount of Goodwill related to the Firethorn reporting unit immediately prior to impairment loss recognized during the period. Goodwill balance subsequent to impairment for Firethorn reporting unit Goodwill Balance for Firethorn reporting unit Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date, which is the cumulative amount paid, adjusted for any amortization recognized prior to adoption of FAS 142 and for any impairment charges, in excess of the fair value of net assets acquired related to the Firethorn reporting unit. Marketable securities Components Of Marketable Securities [Table Text Block] This item represents the disclosure related to marketable securities (both current and noncurrent). Available-for-sale securities Available-for-sale Securities [Table Text Block] Investments classified as available-for-sale in a continuous unrealized loss position deemed to be temporary Investments in continuous unrealized loss position [Table Text Block] This item represents the entire disclosure related to investments that have been in a continuous unrealized loss position. Activity for credit loss portion of other-than-temporary impairments on debt securities Activity for credit loss portion of other-than-temporary impairments on debt securities [Table Text Block] This element represents a tabular roll forward of the amount of other than temporary impairment related to credit losses recognized in earnings. Inventory, Net [Abstract] Raw materials Inventory, Raw Materials Work-in-process Inventory, Work in Process Finished goods Inventory, Finished Goods Inventories Annual effective income tax rate for continuing operations (estimated for fiscal 2012) Effective Income Tax Rate, Continuing Operations Tax benefit related to foreign earnings Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Foreign Income Tax Rate Differential Amount by which the expected Singapore tax would be higher without tax incentive Expected Singapore tax without tax incentives The amount by which the expected Singapore tax would be higher without the tax incentive. Revenues and EBT for reportable segments Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Reconciling items - revenue Reconciliation of Revenue from Segments to Consolidated [Table Text Block] Reconciling items - EBT Reconciliation of Operating Profit (Loss) from Segments to Consolidated [Table Text Block] Segment assets and reconciling items Reconciliation of Assets from Segment to Consolidated [Table Text Block] Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) [Abstract] Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) [Abstract] Preferred Stock [Member] Preferred Stock [Member] Common Stock [Member] Common Stock [Member] Common Class A [Member] Common Class A [Member] Common Class B [Member] Common Class B [Member] Common Class C [Member] Common Class C [Member] Preferred stock, par value Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Preferred stock, shares authorized Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized Preferred stock, shares outstanding Preferred Stock, Shares Outstanding Common stock, par value Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Common stock, shares authorized Common Stock, Shares Authorized Common stock, shares issued Common Stock, Shares, Issued Common stock, shares outstanding Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding Document and Entity Information [Abstract] Document and Entity Information [Abstract] Document Information [Table] Document Information [Table] Document Information, Document [Axis] Document Information, Document [Axis] Document [Domain] Document [Domain] Document Information [Line Items] Document Information [Line Items] Entity Registrant Name Entity Registrant Name Entity Central Index Key Entity Central Index Key Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Document Type Document Type Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Current Reporting Status