Nortel plans for Wimax growth

Nortel is increasing the scope of its end-to-end WiMAX solution to encompass more applications, features and a variety of devices that network operators can offer to businesses and consumers in underserved broadband markets.

ince combining strengths with Alvarion in a strategic WiMAX agreement this June, Nortel has aligned efforts with a number of other industry players including IBM, WiChorus, Quanta Computer and Accton Wireless Broadband, to bring a comprehensive WiMAX solution to market faster and at lower costs.  

"We recognize the path to success is based on an open model with best-in-breed partnerships that draw on one another's strengths," said Scott Wickware, general manager, WiMAX, Nortel. "For Nortel, our sweet spot is the integration of a complete solution and the ability to enable operators to squeeze the highest revenue out of their WiMAX network with our business and consumer applications."  

"In many cases, WiMAX operators are new to wireless and need assistance on delivering the end-to-end solution. Backhaul, applications like VoIP, professional services, devices and enterprise offerings are all part of a WiMAX build and where Nortel excels," said Wickware.   In line with this philosophy, Nortel is using its expertise in the enterprise segment and its existing alliance with IBM to deliver unified communications capabilities for Lotus Notes users over Mobile WiMAX technology. This provides access to a range of services including IP telephony, instant messaging, web conferencing as well as video chat capabilities, regardless of location and device. For WiMAX service providers, this can translate into new opportunities to expand their addressable markets.