Intel buys WLAN chip maker Mobilian

Intel has acquired the assets of little-known wireless networking chip maker Mobilian for an undisclosed sum. Mobilian's web site was recently updated to state: "Substantially all of the assets of Mobilian have been acquired. Mobilian is discontinuing operations as an independent entity."

Intel today confirmed the deal - made through a cash purchase - which was completed on 31 October. Privately owned Mobilian developed TrueRadio, a chipset that offers both 802.11b and Bluetooth wireless connectivity, and allows the, to co-exist seamlessly, despite sharing the same 2.4GHz frequency band. Mobilian's product was aimed at PC card makers, and computer and PDA vendors wanting to offer both technologies in their devices.

TrueRadio is a two-chip set based on ARM's ARM7TDMI core. Mobilian's latest CEO was Manpreet Khaira, an ex-Intel employee. Its previous CEO, Frank Hanzlik, left the company earlier this year to take the helm at industry body The Wi-Fi Alliance.

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