Cisco joinsNetworking giant Cisco Systems Inc. (Nasdaq: CSCO - message board)
has confirmed speculation it is a new addition to the WiMax Forum,
signaling its intent to compete in the nascent 802.16 wireless MAN
market.
"IEEE 802.16 (WiMax) offers a very interesting value proposition to
customers, particularly in the area of delivering wireless broadband
to entire sections of metropolitan areas," notes a company statement.
"As a member of the WiMax Forum (Worldwide Interoperability for
Microwave Access), Cisco will continue to monitor the progress of
IEEE 802.16 and explore its potential to complement Wi-Fi and other
wireless technologies in the fixed, nomadic/portable and mobile
markets."
Earlier this year analysts argued it was only a matter of time
before Cisco jumped on board the WiMax bandwagon (see Cisco Late to
WiMax Party).
We'll have more comment to follow.
— Justin Springham, Senior Editor, Europe, Unstrung