Motorola testing LTE tech

The Long-Term Evolution (LTE) technology that promises to offer wireless transfer speeds as fast as 100Mbps has begun testing with Motorola and a number of wireless provider companies that include Verizon Wireless, a Wednesday report suggests. According to the report, Motorola Vietnam and head of technology for the company’s Asia division Ray Owen said the company will begin introducing commercial products that take advantage of the technology in 2009.

Also referred to as a form of the upcoming 4G wireless data network technology, Verizon has tested and previously announced it would offer the service starting in 2010, and AT&T will likewise offer it in the US in the next year. Others are expected to follow suit by early 2010 in order to remain competitive.

While many believe LTE is a competing technology of WiMAX, Owen points out the two, along with Wi-Fi, are closely related at the core. Other sources at Motorola maintain that about three quarters of Motorola’s investment into WiMAX development have been used in LTE’s growth as well, and Motorola equipment made in the third quarter of 2008 will be able to support either next-generation standard.

By Electronista Staff