Intel has announced plans to collaborate with Indian manufacturers and providers to promote the distribution of Wimax-ready devices by mid-2009.

The corporation expects to focus initially on the promotion of 2.3 and 2.5 GHz devices. Indian companies will be assisted by the Open Patent Alliance and additional entities to determine device requirements, timelines, testing and interoperability plans.

"This is a very exciting time for India and Wimax," said Sriram Viswanathan, Intel VP and general manager of the Wimax Program Office. "Wimax has the ability to help bridge the digital divide with the most cost effective and highest-performing wireless broadband technology available today. The availability of low cost devices for end users forms an essential part of the promise and capability of Wimax."

Viswanathan also noted that the company's efforts were congruent with its focus of connecting Indians to the Internet and allowing individuals to leverage the "unlimited potential" of fast connectivity.

The Wimax forum projects that there will be more than 27.5 million broadband internet users in India by 2012. However, the number of users could expand faster than anticipated following the auction of 2.3 and 2.5 GHz frequency bands.

"The Wimax ecosystem, as well as excitement for the technology, has grown significantly over the past five years," explained CS Rao, Chairman of the Wimax Forum India Office. "Wimax is viewed as the best wireless broadband technology for India – with a diverse and complete ecosystem ready to deliver affordable, lightning-fast wireless Internet."

As IT Examiner previously reported, Intel has invested in a number of wireless projects around the world. For example, the company sank $1 billion in Sprint's Wimax arm Xohm (US) in return for a minority stake of the company. The firm also invested $11.5 million in Taiwanese carrier Vmax Telecom.

"As the Internet evolves, the industry has an opportunity to deliver what consumers are seeking - a fast, seamless and personal mobile Internet experience, regardless of device or location," said Intel CEO Paul Otellini. "Intel Capital's investment in Vmax positions it to deliver Taiwan's first 4G wireless network."

Yiin Chi-Ming, of the Taiwan Ministry of Economic Affairs, concurred. "With a shared vision to accelerate mobility industry momentum, our collaboration with Intel positions Taiwan to further capitalise on opportunities created by the next phase of the Internet." X