Sprint, Intel Test WiMax

OVERLAND PARK, Kan., and SANTA CLARA, Calif. -- Sprint (NYSE:FON) and Intel Corporation today announced an agreement to engage in joint efforts to advance the development of IEEE standards-based 802.16e WiMAX mobile technology, which can provide high-capacity wireless broadband coverage and services throughout metro areas and an enriched multimedia user experience.

The companies will collaborate on technical specifications, perform equipment trials and conduct interoperability testing to examine possible next-generation wide-area wireless broadband devices and services. Ubiquitous wireless broadband access will help meet blossoming demand among businesses and consumers for rapid wireless Internet connectivity and integrated multimedia services.

"Our relationship with Intel will help validate requirements, drive key ecosystem development needs, formulate network strategies and define the potential for advanced wireless services adoption," explained Oliver Valente, chief technology officer and vice president -- Technology Development, Sprint. Sprint is fostering a number of strategic partnerships and investigating multiple technologies in support of future wireless interactive multimedia services that would be considered for deployment in the 2.5 GHz band of spectrum. WiMAX is one of the technologies Sprint is investigating for these services.

"WiMAX technology has the promise to deliver new broadband services to consumers globally," said Sean Maloney, executive vice president and general manager of the Intel Mobility Group. "We are excited to work closely with Sprint to bring these new services and new networks to the market."

Intel Corp.

Sprint Corp.