Working to Make WiMAX a Reality; Nokia and Intel to Collaborate

Continuing to push for the development of WiMAX, chip making behemoth Intel Corp. and mobile communications giant Nokia announced in a statement today that they will collaborate on developing the broadband wireless technology for mobile users.

According to the statement, WiMAX, which stands for Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access, is a standards-based technology that provides high-speed broadband connections over long distances (up to 30 miles).

Another way to put it – and to over simplify – is that it’s Wi-Fi on steroids (faster, more powerful, and greater range, but without the balding and bad acne).

Also, unlike Wi-Fi, WiMAX is backed by an industry-led, nonprofit corporation - WiMAX Forum - which certifies the compatibility and interoperability of broadband wireless equipment, according to the statement.

The WiMAX Forum is comprised of equipment and component suppliers, including Intel and Nokia.

One of WiMAX’s major applications is that it is capable of providing high-speed “last mile” broadband connectivity to homes and businesses as an alternative to DSL or cable.

The two companies, according to the statement, will work together on several areas of WiMAX mobile technology, including mobile clients, network infrastructure, industry-enabling efforts and market development.

“For mobile devices and notebook platforms, Intel and Nokia will work closely together to identify and deliver the unique power and performance requirements of the technology, and will work on base station strategies to help deploy a WiMAX network infrastructure that will provide adequate and reliable coverage,” the statement said.

The collaboration is yet another example of Intel’s determined march to deliver WiMAX to the general public; in April, Intel launched its first WiMAX product.

“Broadband technologies – of all types – represent an enormous opportunity for business and individuals around the world,” said Sean Maloney, Intel’s Mobility Group executive vice president and general manager.  “Even though we in the industry as a whole are at the early stages of discovery and development, the industry momentum is remarkable.  To have innovators like Nokia working to bring WiMAX and other broadband wireless technologies to the masses is very encouraging.”

As for Nokia, which left the WiMAX Forum for a month in 2004, the collaboration represents its continued efforts to develop WiMAX technology.

“Nokia’s end-to-end multiradio strategy covers many wireless technologies optimized for uses from local connectivity and fast data transport, to broadcasting technologies and full mobility of voice and data,” said Tero Ojanpera, Nokia’s senior vice president and chief strategy officer.  “WiMAX will be an important technology contemplating 3GPP and 3GPP2 technologies.  It will also create new opportunities for the consumer and enterprise markets.”

According to WiMAXforum.org, notebooks and PDAs are expected to have WiMAX technology installed sometime in 2006.