Intel Invests in Japanese WiMAX Network Operator

Japanese WiMAX network operator, UQ Communications has announced a cooperation with Intel to boost the uptake of WiMAX services in the country. In addition to working with UQ on embedded technology, Intel Capital invested US$43 million in the company. UQ Communications will utilize the funding to continue the nationwide expansion of UQ WiMAX service in Japan, with the commitment to provide WiMAX coverage to 90 percent of the country by 2012.

Scheduled to launch on July 1, UQ Communications has unveiled a novel fee structure that will make it easy for new users to subscribe. Meanwhile, Intel will offer the Intel WiMAX/Wi-Fi Link 5150, an embedded module supporting both wireless LAN and WiMAX, providing flexible Internet connectivity and high-speed communications with WiMAX. Toshiba, Panasonic and Onkyo have today unveiled notebook PCs which integrate the module and Intel Centrino 2 processor technology. The laptops, as well as other products, are scheduled to debut next month in Japan.

Said Takashi Tanaka, president of UQ Communications: "We are glad to welcome this major milestone. Working with Intel, we are on the road to full mobile broadband access, and, remarkably, in just 18 months since UQ Communications obtained a Mobile WiMAX license. A feature of Mobile WiMAX is that its infrastructure is open, both to people who want to use WiMAX, and to businesses that want to enter the WiMAX market. In collaboration with PC makers, MVNOs, and various other industries, we will enable true mobile broadband access, with UQ constructing a high-speed, advanced WiMAX network, while Intel enables WiMAX modules to be built into all kinds of devices."

UQ Communications recently launched trial service of its UQ WiMAX in Tokyo's 23 wards, Yokohama and Kawasaki, and the Haneda Airport (Tokyo International Airport). UQ Communications will formally launch UQ WiMAX service on July 1.

Posted to the site on 8th June 2009