MediaTek, Intel partner to bring 5G to PCs

MediaTek has announced its collaboration with Intel to bring 5G connectivity to next-generation PCs.

The technology behind this is MediaTek’s T700 5G modem which supports non-standalone and standalone (SA) Sub-6 5G network architectures. MediaTek also said that the modem is highly power-efficient to extend the battery of Intel-powered laptops. The company has even completed its 5G SA calls in real-world test scenarios.

“Our partnership with Intel is a natural extension of our growing 5G mobile business, and is an incredible market opportunity for MediaTek to move into the PC market,” said MediaTek President Joe Chen. “With Intel’s deep expertise in the PC space and our groundbreaking 5G modem technology, we will redefine the laptop experience and bring consumers the best 5G experiences.”

“A successful partnership is measured by execution, and we’re excited to see the rapid progress we are making with MediaTek on our 5G modem solution with customer sampling starting later this quarter. Building on our 4G/LTE leadership in PCs, 5G is poised to further transform the way we connect, compute and communicate. Intel is committed to enhancing those capabilities on the world’s best PCs,” said Chris Walker, Intel corporate vice president and general manager of Mobile Client Platforms.

The first laptops enabled by the MediaTek and Intel 5G modem solution are expected in early 2021.