Pipex and Nokia Siemens team up on WiMax
The newly merged Nokia Siemens Networks is to collaborate with Pipex Wireless on its rollout of mobile WiMax in the UK.
WiMax is a long-range radio technology that can deliver broadband connectivity with large cell sizes. Most deployments so far have been fixed WiMax, where the end user must be in a fixed location. Pipex is trying to change that by enabling users to access services on the move.
The deal will see the two companies working on "equipment specification, network design and service definition in readiness for a pilot deployment during this year", according to Pipex.
"As we reach the next stage of our business, we are looking to work with strategic partners that share our vision of offering customers a ground-breaking WiMAX broadband experience," said Pipex Wireless's chief executive, Mike Read, on Thursday.
Mobile WiMax is seen as a threat to the five mobile operators, who have invested billions of pounds in 3G. Pipex Wireless recently set up its second trial deployment of mobile WiMax in Warwick, following its initial network in Milton Keynes.