In the statement to More Than Moore, Eric McLaughlin announced Intel's difficult decision to exit the WWAN client business of LTE and 5G to prioritize investment in the IDM 2.0 strategy. This decision is part of Intel's larger cost-cutting measures, including reducing executive compensation and preparing for another round of layoffs. However, Intel will continue to support its OEM partners who use its 5G solutions by collaborating with MediaTek, and will still provide notebook cellular wireless solutions based on its CPU and MediaTek's baseband chip for future products.
This partnership with MediaTek is especially significant for Intel. Previously, Intel's efforts to develop its own 5G modem technology were unsuccessful, and it eventually sold its smartphone modem business to Apple. With its 5G baseband capabilities limited, partnering with MediaTek and supplying notebook cellular wireless solutions for future devices could be the key to Intel's success in the mobile market.
In addition, Intel's long-standing partnership with Guangxian Tong, a leading Chinese communication module manufacturer, has seen the two companies work together on the development of 5G IoT communication modules.
Overall, it is clear that Intel remains committed to 5G despite exiting the WWAN client business. Through strategic partnerships and continued support for its OEM partners, Intel is positioning itself for success in the mobile market.
