3G Developer Opens Australian R&D Center

Agere Systems says it is establishing a new design center in Australia for next-generation wireless technology development. This operation will enhance Agere's current capabilities in delivering integrated chip set and software solutions for dual-mode 3G mobile phones. Agere's new Australia design center will focus on silicon and systems development for the WCDMA communications standard, as well as future standards such as High-Speed Downlink Packet Access (HSDPA). This center, which will be located in North Ryde, will also complement current Agere mobile terminal design operations in Munich, Germany; Ascot, U.K.; and Allentown, Pa. Agere plans to employ a team of about 15 engineers in Australia.

"In establishing this new design operation, Agere is strengthening its ability to provide a proven portfolio of mobile communications solutions for the GSM and UMTS markets," said Luc Seraphin, vice president of Agere's mobile terminals division. "This investment in engineering expertise shows Agere's commitment to speeding the global deployment of dual-mode 3G services and enabling unparalleled wireless connectivity, speed and features for mobile users."

Industry analyst firm Allied Business Intelligence estimates that the number of WCDMA subscribers will grow from approximately 1.2 million in 2003 to more than 200 million globally in 2008. Dual-mode 3G phones allow users to access GSM900/1800/1900 networks, which represent more than 70% of the world's cellular networks, as well as new WCDMA/UMTS networks being deployed in Asia, Australia, Europe and North America.

Agere expects this new design center to be operational in the fourth calendar quarter 2003."

Posted to the site on 30th September 2003