|
The next wave of wireless isn't going to be about wireless gadgets. It's going to be about a wireless society. On a global scale. Intel's vision includes multiple wireless technologies and networks, all designed to work together, providing a seamless experience as people move from one location to another.
To enable this wireless society, Intel is developing ways to integrate radio technologies into Intel silicon (see Radio Free Intel). The goal is low-cost, low-power silicon radio building blocks that can be integrated into a wide range of digital devices. Radio technologies being investigated include agile radio, reconfigurable architecture (RCA), cognitive radio, and smart antennas.
To facilitate wireless personal area networks (PANs) in both home and office, Intel is working on Ultra-Wideband (UWB) and Wireless USB (WUSB) technologies. We're also helping to define the next-generation high-throughput wireless LAN standard, 802.11n, including through working with the IEEE 802.11 Task Group N. In related work, we're researching mesh networking technologies for balancing network load and enhancing bandwidth sharing to improve performance
Intel is also a major player in helping accelerate broadband wireless access through WiMAX (802.16). This fast-emerging wireless broadband technology promises to be a great wide-area solution for bringing high-speed Internet access into homes and businesses. To enable users to stay easily connected as they roam from one network to another (such as from 2.5G to 802.11b to 802.16), Intel is pursuing standards-based seamless networking solutions.
Wireless technologies can free people in many ways, but not without the help of governments around the world. Consequently, Intel works with trade associations, industry groups and regulatory bodies (such as the FCC) worldwide to influence regulatory policies and spectrum reform.
| 
