Intel: Wireless technologies to become compatible

The chipmaker is spreading its efforts across a number of wireless technologies, including Wi-Fi, WiMax and next-generation cellular, because these will all coexist over time, Intel executives told a meeting here Friday to discuss the future of the wireless and mobile industries.

"Any which way you look at it, there will be multiple networks," said Sean Maloney, an executive vice president in Intel's communications group. Though each technology will handle its own particular task and may be used differently from region to region, they will all likely be able to work together, he added.

Wireless communications are increasingly seen by the chipmaker as key to its fortunes. The company has invested in the technology by incorporating it into products for notebook PCs, such as its Centrino bundle, and developing new types of communications chips.