Intel (INTC) and ZTE announced plans to jointly deliver global broadband wireless solutions using WiMAX technology. WiMAX is an emerging wireless standard that promises to provide high-speed broadband connectivity for both fixed and mobile wireless networks.

Intel and ZTE will cooperate to develop and promote standards and specifications for 802.16-based networks. The companies will also work jointly with regulatory agencies in key global markets for securing adequate radio spectrum for broadband services based on WiMAX technology.

As part of this agreement, ZTE will develop and deploy infrastructure and customer premises equipment using Intel's silicon for WiMAX solutions based on IEEE 802.16-2004 (previously known as IEEE 802.16REVd), and the upcoming IEEE 802.16e standards for mobile networks. "Rosedale" is Intel's first "system-on-a-chip" solution for cost-effective customer premise equipment (CPE) supporting 802.16-2004.

"Broadband wireless access is gaining tremendous momentum and provides a real solution to bridging the digital divide," said Scott Richardson, general manager of Intel's Broadband Wireless Division. "This collaboration with ZTE is an important step in accelerating the shift to broadband wireless globally."

"Intel and ZTE have been working together for more than 18 months for the development of standards and architecture for 802.16-based networks. This agreement further strengthens the relationship between Intel and ZTE for the promotion of WiMAX technology worldwide," said James Jiang, president of ZiMAX Technologies. (ZiMAX is a subsidiary of ZTE Corporation, dedicated to the development of IEEE 802.16-based products.) "Intel and ZTE are both major global players in their respective domains. This relationship is significant for global harmonization of WiMAX-based products."

ZTE plans to begin initial deployments of networks based on 802.16-2004 later this year with carriers in China, Eastern Europe and Southeast Asia. ZTE plans to conduct field trials of 802.16e networks beginning in mid-2006.