Here is an interesting paper on the architecture of an LTE modem. Seems like a reasonable approach, although I don't know how prevalent this approach is. RFIC,

Here is an interesting paper on the architecture of an LTE modem. Seems like a reasonable approach, although I don't know how prevalent this approach is. RFIC, some dedicated hardware for the PHY DSP stuff and an ARM chip for the high level logic, all connected via AXI bus. https://community.arm.com/cfs-file/__key/telligent-evolution-components-attachments/01-1996-00-00-00-00-46-60/ARM_2D00_CEVA-LTE_2D00_Advanced-White-Paper-Final.pdf https://community.arm.com/cfs-file/__key/telligent-evolution...