Chip Developed To Roam Between Wi-Fi And WiMAX

There's WiMAX, and then there's Wi-Fi. And now, there's a chip that understands both wireless languages. As you well know, the former is a burgeoning next generation wireless data technology that operators such as Sprint have begun to roll out, and while LTE is largely believed to the true next gen data protocol for cell phones, it's hard to disrespect a technology that's already available and being used in select corners of the globe.

That said, Wi-Fi is still entirely more ubiquitous, but it's always nice to have options. To that end, GCT Semiconductor, a supplier of mobile WiMAX solutions to the global market, and Green Packet, a developer of next-generation mobile broadband and networking solutions, have linked up to create a solution that can roam between WiMAX and Wi-Fi networks. The strategic collaboration will combine the expertise from both firms, namely GCT's GDM7215 -- which is largely believed to be the industry's first single chip supporting both mobile WiMAX IEEE 802.16e Wave 2 and WiFi 802.11 b/g. On Green Packet's behalf, it will provide its Intouch Connection Manager (CM) software in order to keep connections running smoothly.

There's no clear ship date just yet, but needless to say something like this would be hugely beneficial in netbooks and smart phones.