Intel continues to focus on what is most important, its IDM 2.0 project, which is why it has started to dismantle its wide area network (WWAN) business, specifically decided to end its 5G and 4G modem business. The move has been in the making for some time, and while Intel will stop making 5G and 4G models, it will continue to offer laptop solutions. Of course, now through the MediaTek modem.
Indeed, Intel has already sold its 5G and 4G modem business to Apple in mid-2019. However, the company is still pending 5G and 4G LTE patents. In this way, it continued to offer 5G and 4G modem solutions as part of its mobile platforms. For MediaTek, Intel’s PC modem technology will deliver connectivity solutions for customers’ entire devices, from simple Internet of Things (IoT) devices to advanced 5G-enabled ultrabooks.
Intel has decided to forget about wireless networks by selling 5G technology
In this way, Intel plans to transfer 5G technology to Fibocom and MediaTek. As a result, it is now easier to transfer driver code and license agreements to maintain the customer experience. Although Intel intends to exit the 5G market in July, it will retain a small team to support MediaTek
. This team is tied to hardware, software and clients.
The technology transfer is expected to be completed in May and is not expected to have any financial impact on Intel. Intel OEM partners using 5G solutions can continue to collaborate with MediaTek. This will be a company that provides updates and enhancements to existing travel products.
“As we continue to invest in our IDM 2.0 strategy, we continue to make the difficult decision to exit our WWAN business for both 4G LTE and 5G,” said Eric McLaughlin, Intel’s vice president of GM Wireless Solutions, in a statement. More than Moore.
“We will work with our partners and customers to facilitate a smooth transition that supports ongoing business and enables our customers to continue to provide solutions for the connected PC segment.”
Essentially, it makes more sense for MediaTek to offer a whole stack of connectivity solutions than Intel itself. What’s more, the “always on PC” (ACPC) business has not grown in recent years. While this may change for Apple, Apple already has its legacy technology from Intel. It goes without saying that Qualcomm is also in the said business. This shows that Intel is not interested in competing with both companies for a market sector with limited profit margins.
“MediaTek has a strong footprint in providing global wireless solutions and continues to expand its portfolio of wireless modems beyond smartphones, to PCs and other devices,” reads a MediaTek statement cited by More Than Moore.
