Intel And MediaTek Partnering In Order To Bring 5G On The PC

By Amit Chowdhry • Nov 27, 2019
  • Intel announced that it is partnering with MediaTek on the development, certification, and support of 5G modem solutions

Intel has announced that it is partnering with MediaTek on the development, certification, and support of 5G modem solutions for the next generation of PC experiences. And as part of the partnership, Intel is going to define a 5G solution specification, including a 5G modem to be developed and delivered by MediaTek. Plus Intel will also provide optimization and validation across the platform and lend system integration and co-engineering support to further enable its OEM partners.

“5G is poised to unleash a new level of computing and connectivity that will transform the way we interact with the world. This partnership with MediaTek brings together industry leaders with deep engineering, system integration, and connectivity expertise to deliver 5G experiences on the next generation of the world’s best PCs,” said Intel Executive Vice President & General Manager of the Client Computing Group Gregory Bryant.

The first products are expected to be available in early 2021. And Dell and HP are expected to be among the first OEMs to deliver laptops enabled with Intel and MediaTek’s 5G solution.

This partnership is a big deal since 5G will be the most significant network transformation in history. And it represents the convergence of computing and communications where it will open the door for new PC experiences and the way we connect with the world around us. Intel is the volume leader when it comes to wireless and cellular-connected PCs today with its Intel Wi-Fi 6 (Gig+) and LTE solutions optimized across consumer and commercial segments.

“Our 5G modem for PCs, developed in partnership with Intel, is integral to making 5G accessible and available across home and mobile platforms,” added MediaTek President Joe Chen. “5G will usher in the next era of PC experiences, and working with Intel, an industry leader in computing, highlights MediaTek’s expertise in designing 5G technology for global markets. With this partnership, consumers will be able to browse, stream and game faster on their PCs, but we also expect them to innovate with 5G in ways we have not yet imagined.”

Intel and Mediatek are also working with Fibocom to develop M.2 modules optimized for integration with Intel client platforms. And as the first module vendor for this solution, Fibocom will provide operator certification and regulatory support as well as lead 5G M.2 module manufacturing, sales and distribution.