Novatel Wireless has become the first modem manufacturer to get its embedded LTE module certified by Verizon Wireless for use on the carrier’s growing 4G LTE network, with the Expedite E362 also offering backward compatibility to 2G/3G GSM and CDMA networks. Interestingly, as well as working with various flavors of Windows, the miniPCI modem also supports Android (from Froyo to Honeycomb), meaning this could well end up being the LTE card that slots into Motorola’s XOOM 4G.
Verizon had promised a free 4G update for the XOOM when it launched the 3G version of the slate earlier in the year. At the time, though, no 4G miniPCI modems certified for the LTE network were available, something which has obviously now changed with the advent of this new card.
As well as LTE there’s quadband HSPA+ and GPS support, though which of those capabilities Verizon might leave turned on remains to be seen. Even if it doesn’t find its way into the XOOM, expect notebooks and tablets using the Novatel card to reach the market sooner rather than later.
Press Release:
Novatel Wireless Embedded LTE Module First to Receive Certification for Commercial Use on Verizon Wireless 4G Network
SAN DIEGO May 19, 2011 Novatel Wireless (NASDAQ: NVTL), a leading provider of wireless broadband solutions, today announced that it has received technical approval for its Expedite E362 4G LTE embedded module to run on the Verizon Wireless LTE network.
Novatel Wireless is the first provider to have an embedded LTE solution commercially available and compatible with the Verizon Wireless network. Novatel Wireless embedded modules portfolio provides innovative solutions to integrate high-speed data connectivity into notebooks, netbooks, tablets and other portable entertainment devices.
We're proud to cross this milestone with our leading next-generation 4G LTE embedded module, says Rob Hadley, CMO of Novatel Wireless. To meet consumers desire to be connected anywhere, anytime, we are actively engaged in integrating our 4G embedded modules into platform launches with a number of devices and notebook manufacturers as they roll-out next-generation
enabled mobile broadband devices.
Developing on the proven performance of the Expedite product line, Novatel Wireless¹Expedite E362 LTE embedded module is optimized for power efficiency, thermal performance and weight. Additional key features include Novatel Wireless proven Connection Manager Mobilink 3 – supporting Windows 7, Vista and XP as well as software support for OEM tablet and notebook integration with both Windows drivers and Android RIL (from Froyo to Honeycomb). The Expedite E362 is capable of multimode support for LTE and backward compatibility to existing 2G and 3G GSM and CDMA networks.
ABOUT NOVATEL WIRELESS
Novatel Wireless, Inc. is a leader in the design and development of intelligent wireless solutions based on 2G, 3G and 4G technologies providing wireless connectivity. The company delivers specialized wireless solutions to carriers, distributors, retailers, OEMs and vertical markets worldwide.
Novatel Wireless’ Intelligent Mobile Hotspot products, software, USB modems, embedded modules and smart M2M modules provide innovative anywhere, anytime communications solutions for consumers and enterprises. Headquartered in San Diego, California, Novatel Wireless is listed on NASDAQ: NVTL. For more information please visit www.nvtl.com. (NVTLG)
