Intel introduces ‘5G’ modems and seems to want to integrate Wi-Fi with processor
Intel has announced the XMM 8000 series of modems that will be ready for the upcoming 5G networks. In addition, there will be a new lte modem that should support a speed of 1.6 Gbit/s and Intel seems to want to integrate WiFi in processors from 2019.
Intel has updated its roadmap of XMM modems with the new models. The XMM 8000 series will, among other things, support connections on frequencies lower than 6GHz and must also be able to handle signal on the mmwave band from 30GHz to 300GHz. Intel mentions the XMM 8060 by name, which should arrive in ‘5g-ready’ devices in 2019. They should then be able to use 5G networks in 2020. That is the year that the tech sector, other organizations and governments have set the goal of having the first 5G networks ready.
In addition to 5g modems, Intel comes with the XMM 7660, this is another 4g modem, but one of the LTE Advanced Pro type with Cat. 19 properties for theoretical downstream speeds of 1.6Gbit/s and upload speeds of 225Mbit/s. It will be coming to devices in 2019 and could well be future iPhones. Apple has been using Intel modems in its iPhones since last year, and the Cupertino company is in conflict with its traditional supplier, Qualcomm, to such an extent that the company is rumored to want to phase out Qualcomm modems for iPhones and iPads altogether.
Qualcomm is also working on 5g modems. According to EETimes, Qualcomm has major influence on the 3GPP 5G standard that should be ready by the end of this year. Intel now says it is “giving the industry a lot of insights” about 5G technology with its Mobile Trial Platform, with which it conducts tests worldwide.
Intel also shows WiFi network cards on its roadmap, but for 2019 there is a processor here, which suggests that Intel will have processors with WiFi integrated on the market by then. In 2012, Intel already demonstrated an Atom codenamed Rosepoint that had Wi-Fi integration. In addition, there was recently a rumor about a Gemini Lake soc with MAC hardware integrated. Intel doesn’t say anything about the Wi-Fi integration, just that it’s coming “fast” with Gigabit Wi-Fi and next-generation 802.11ax, starting in 2018.