Motorola and Intel today announced their plan to collaboratively foster greater industry momentum for WiMAX and to advance the use of mobile WiMAX technology, based on the proposed IEEE 802.16e standard, for both fixed and wireless broadband applications.

Intel and Motorola plan to collaborate on specification efforts within the WiMAX Forum in an effort to ensure that network and device interoperability issues are addressed adequately.

In addition to working jointly to advance WiMAX standards, the companies plan to work together on interoperability testing of Motorola mobile devices, network equipment, and customer premises equipment with Intel products.

"WiMAX is beginning to deliver on its promise to provide broadband wireless access to businesses and consumers, and the promise of full mobility is around the corner with the anticipated ratification of the 802.16e standard," said Scott Richardson, general manager of Intel's Broadband Wireless Division. "By working with Motorola on mobile WiMAX standards and technology, we can jointly develop and test equipment to meet the requirements necessary for truly mobile broadband."

"We believe 802.16e is going to be the way to go for both fixed and nomadic applications," said Dan Coombes, chief technology officer, Motorola Networks. "With its robust specifications and ability to support high-value services like voice over IP and mobility, 802.16e is an ideal choice for many applications. Teaming with Intel to work on 802.16e standards and interoperability matters will complement our strategy of using 802.16e with our MOTOwi4 WiMAX solutions."

The MOTOwi4 portfolio includes fixed and mobile broadband solutions designed to meet the different needs of wireless, wireline, and cable operators for lower cost delivery of data rich multimedia applications and services. The portfolio extends beyond access point solutions to encompass mobile devices, customer premises equipment, PC cards, in-vehicle public safety devices and services.

Motorola and Intel are members of the WiMAX Forum, an industry-led non-profit corporation formed to promote and certify compatibility and interoperability of broadband wireless products. WiMAX, which stands for Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access, is a standards-based wireless technology that provides high-throughput broadband connections over long distances. WiMAX-based products can be used by cellular, wireline, cable and wireless service providers to meet their unique market needs for high-speed broadband.