Intel expects WiMax to become a broadband standard by 2006

Intel expects WiMax to become a broadband standard by 2006

Intel is in the process of releasing their first specially designed chip for the WiMax devices. WiMax is an advanced version of the popular Wi-Fi technology, which is more powerful and can extend the range of wireless devices to more than 5 miles. The technology is getting some serious attention from major corporations all around the world, which is a good thing, as it would help WiMax to get the boost it requires to become popular standard.

The company however expects WiMax to take sometime before it becomes a global standard for the next generation broadband connectivity. A senior representative revealed that various tests are underway to check the applicability and performance of the technology and actual deployment is sometime away.

Intel also claims that many mobile operators have also shown interest in joining the WiMax bandwagon and one of them have already started to offer the service. Dutch company Enertel has launched their WiMax services in Rotterdam, Amsterdam, The Hague, Utrecht, and Eindhoven. They plan to extend the service to cover the entire Holland.

Mobile users take this technology as an extension of their newly built 3G networks to lessen the load from heavy data users. Intel expects mobile manufacturers to launch their Wi-Fi phones in the coming times, WiMax powered mobiles would be next. In addition, standardization of a version of WiMax for laptops and portable devices is also expected to take place in the coming months.

All these signs points towards an exciting wireless genre of devices for the end consumer in the coming times.