Intel acquires German network chip maker Lantiq

Intel has acquired Lantiq, a company that produces chips for network equipment, for an undisclosed amount. With the acquisition, Intel wants to strengthen its position in the market for internet of things applications.

Lantiq, which is based in Munich, makes chips for DSL gateways, fiber modems and LTE gateways, but also supplies WiFi and Ethernet hardware in various integrated network products, such as the AnyWan platform. This hardware, together with the necessary software, is mainly sold to OEMs, telecom companies and manufacturers of modems and set-top boxes.

Intel announced Monday that it had acquired the German company. The chip manufacturer does not want to say how much has been paid for Lantiq, but Intel does indicate that it wants to merge its cable modem technology activities with the new German business unit.

With the acquisition, Intel aims to strengthen its market share in the fast-growing market for internet of things applications. Gateway equipment is expected to play an increasingly important role in ‘smart households’ in the coming years as network equipment becomes an important conduit for a wider range of devices and sensors that require an internet connection.