Intel Develops 5G Modem Solution with Taiwan's MediaTek
Intel - defines technical specifications, MediaTek - development and manufacturing


Intel announced on the 26th that it has entered into a partnership with MediaTek to develop 5G modem solutions.

Through this collaboration, Intel plans to define specifications for 5G solutions, including 5G modems to be developed by MediaTek. In addition, it will support optimization and verification across platforms, as well as system integration and joint engineering for OEM partners.

As the first step of the partnership, Intel defines 5G technology specifications for applications in the major notebook sector. MediaTek is responsible for the development and manufacturing of 5G modems. In addition, Intel plans to develop and verify platform-level hardware and software integration, including OS host drivers.

In addition, the two companies are collaborating with Fibocom to develop M.2 modules optimized for integration with Intel client platforms. Fibocom, the first vendor of M.2 modules, supports the manufacturing, sales, and distribution of 5G M.2 modules, along with carrier certification and regulatory support.

Gregory Bryant, Intel Senior Vice President and General Manager of the Client Computing Group, said, “5G is triggering a new dimension of computing and connectivity that will change the way we communicate,” and added, “Through our partnership with MediaTek, we will deliver 5G experiences on next-generation PCs together with leading companies that support engineering, system integration, and enhanced connectivity.”

"The PC 5G modem developed by MediaTek together with Intel is essential for enabling 5G on home and mobile platforms," said Joe Chen, President of MediaTek. "Through this collaboration, users will be able to browse, stream, and play games faster on their PCs, and experience 5G in ways never before imagined."

Intel announced last July that it would sell its smartphone modem division to Apple. Unable to develop 5G modems in-house, Intel ultimately chose Taiwan's MediaTek as its partner. The industry analyzes that this was because Qualcomm is a direct competitor, and Huawei could not be chosen due to U.S. government sanctions.

Meanwhile, Dell and HP are scheduled to be the first OEMs to release laptops equipped with Intel and MediaTek's 5G solutions in the first half of 2021.