Topics: Mobile

Apple Licenses 3G Technology

Posted by Eric Zeman, Sep 10, 2007 09:03 AM

Apple recently agreed to license InterDigital's wireless technology. The deal is worth $56 million and under the initial terms set by the two companies will last for seven years. Is a 3G version of the iPhone in the works?

The patent being licensed by Apple covers both 2G and 3G technologies and also manages bandwidth and helps control power efficiency and roaming functions. With 3G in the technology mix, though, it's hard not to speculate that this could be the beginnings of a 3G version of the iPhone.

Until now, there has been little evidence that Apple intends to release a 3G version of the iPhone, though it has long been hoped for. Over the weekend, there were several sightings of T-Mobile advertisements in Germany for the iPhone, and included in the spec list is HSDPA 3G and storage capacity that is beefed up to 16GB. Whether or not these ads are PhotoShop trickery or genuine is unknown.

Either way, Apple would likely not license 3G technology if it didn't plan to use it...at some point.

When exactly that will be is anyone's guess.

« Microsoft Patents Uncrackable DRM | Main | Apple May Join Google And Bid On Wireless Spectrum »

This is a public forum. United Business Media and its affiliates are not responsible for and do not control what is posted herein. United Business Media makes no warranties or guarantees concerning any advice dispensed by its staff members or readers.

Community standards in this comment area do not permit hate language, excessive profanity, or other patently offensive language. Please be aware that all information posted to this comment area becomes the property of United Business Media LLC and may be edited and republished in print or electronic format as outlined in United Business Media's Terms of Service.

Important Note: This comment area is NOT intended for commercial messages or solicitations of business.