Sprint Nextel has named Nokia as a key infrastructure and consumer electronic device provider for its 4G WiMAX next generation mobility network. Nokia joins Intel, Samsung and Motorola in creating the advanced network infrastructure and access devices that will be designed to allow consumers, businesses and governments to experience high bandwidth mobile Internet connectivity at high access speeds.
In August 2006 Sprint Nextel announced the selection of WiMAX (IEEE802.16e-2005) technology for a next generation wireless network that would utilize the company's extensive 2.5 GHz spectrum assets, and formation of a unique business ecosystem designed to spur widespread adoption of WiMAX devices and services. This combination creates a time-to-market advantage for implementing the first large scale mobile WiMAX network expected to cover at least 100 million people by the end of 2008.
The strategic relationship with Nokia involves network infrastructure, mobile device and market development commitments. Under the agreement the company will:
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Be a major supplier to Sprint for WiMAX network infrastructure, including its Flexi WiMAX base transceiver stations
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Develop and market WiMAX enabled mobile devices in significant volumes
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Jointly develop mobility services and applications to improve the customer experience
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Conduct co-marketing efforts to drive market development and support global adoption to help establish worldwide roaming.
