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Unveiled at the IDF Fall 2004, Intel believes that WiMAX will expand broadband Internet access to a new generation of users. Currently in the sampling phase, systems are expected within six to nine months. In terms of the widest possible rollout, the schedule is for mobile phones to be incorporating WiMAX chips by 2007.

'We want to bring it down to the price point of Wi-Fi in the next couple of years,' said Scott Richardson, General Manager of Intel's Wireless Broadband Division,

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mentioning a sub $200 price point.

The first phase of the market rollout is dubbed by Intel as covering 'fixed access' - competing alongside DSL and cable broadband to provide fixed broadband access inside or outside of homes. The next phase - concerned with portability - involves 'nomadic metrozones' where mobile users are seamlessly connected within large scale urban areas (using 802.16e). Finally, full mobility support is scheduled for 2007 with the incorporation of WiMAX chips into handsets such as mobile phones.

Currently in the sampling phase, Richardson said that deployment - in terms of base stations and clients - will follow next year. He is pictured, pointing out the Rosedale chip on a sample board.

Note that the Rosedale design does not include the radio element - Intel is working with third-parties - and enterprise functionality, for example details of routing or switching that will be included in a reference design, has yet to be finalized.

For more information see www.wimaxforum.org.