The new wireless modem will help bridge 3G and 4G technologies and eventually find its way into electronics, including mobile phones.This is good news for Sprint, which is launching its XOHM WiMax network with Clearwire at some point in the coming months. It will badly need devices that can actually access the network if it is to entice anyone to sign up for service.

According to Motorola, this chip will be cheaper, smaller, faster and more power efficient than current 3G chips. It is set for Motorola's 2008 device roadmap. Motorola said it will support 3G and 4G technologies, but was not specific about which 3G (EV-DO or HSDPA/WCDMA) it is compatible with.

It will be important for Sprint's partners to have WiMax-capable devices available at launch. Nokia has already stated that its N800 Internet tablet will start shipping with a WiMax radio on board, but there have been no other notable device announcements. Both Samsung and Nokia have committed to delivering devices by the launch date.

Motorolo also bowed a new WiMax modem for fixed broadband access. This piece of hardware is basically a wireless modem that can snag WiMax signals and provide broadband Internet to business or home offices that are beyond traditional broadband alternatives, such as fiber optics, DSL or cable. This particular hardware will likely be used on Clearwire's portion of the upcoming Sprint/Clearwire WiMax network, as its business model is to serve those in out-of-the-way places.