PicoChip Secures US$20 Million in Funding

­Femtocell developer, picoChip has completed a US$20 million funding round. picoChip's investors include financial investors, Atlas Venture, Highland Capital Partners, Pond Venture Partners, Scottish Equity Partners, and Rothschild plus strategic investors AT&T, Intel and Samsung.

"This investment comes as the market is taking off for picoChip: it is testament to what we have already achieved, and our investors' belief in our future," said picoChip's CEO Nigel Toon. "picoChip was the pioneer in femtocell technology and we are delighted to see our customers and partners deploying in volume in the rapidly developing global femtocell market. Our customers are already benefiting from picoChip's substantial head-start, field-proven robust products and unparalleled experience in this market. This investment strengthens our balance sheet and fully funds us through to IPO."

ABI Research forecasts the total available femtocell market in 2010 will reach 2.3 million units, rising to 40 million units in 2014. In 2009 six major network operators have launched femtocell services that cover the USA, Europe and Asia.

Posted to the site on 18th November 2009