Intel, Nokia team up on WiMax

Intel and Nokia said Wednesday that they have teamed up to make WiMax devices and networks interoperable. In addition, Nokia plans to use Intel WiMax chips for its NSeries Internet Tablets.

Specifically, Intel, Nokia and Nokia Siemens Networks are testing interoperability between Intel powered laptops, mobile and Nokia WiMax devices and Nokia Siemens network gear. Interoperability testing is also going on at Sprint's testing labs. Sprint is an early mover on WiMax with plans to build a broadband wireless network. Overall, WiMax appears to be gaining momentum.

Nokia plans to use Intel's WiMax processors, code named Baxter Peak, in its WiMax devices expected to ship in 2008. Nokia's Nseries Internet Tablets are expected to be a computing platform able to fit in a pocket. These Linux-based devices will include a Mozilla-based browser, email and support for applications like Skype and Rhapsody and run on Sprint's Xohm network.

In a statement, the parties said the goal is to make WiMax use between devices and networks seamless. That's no surprise given that WiMax will need a wow factor among early adopters to gain momentum.