Intel and MediaTek collaborate to launch M.2 5G solutions

Earlier Qualcomm announced the launch of the M.2 Qualcomm Snapdragon X65 5G modem, which allows hardware manufacturers to launch compatible devices.

The reason for using the M.2 interface is that the current standard has matured and most devices have this interface, so it is more convenient if you want to install and use it.

But it needs to be emphasized that Qualcomm’s modem does not support users to purchase and install it by themselves. On the contrary, it is sold to the manufacturer for matching in the design.

Now Intel has launched a very similar product, and Intel has chosen to cooperate with chip manufacturer MediaTek to launch a 5G modem that also uses the M.2 interface.

Intel’s solution this time is still used by notebook computer manufacturers, which is the same as Qualcomm and is not directly provided to consumers.

The reason is that although the use of the M.2 interface can reduce the complexity of implementing a 5G network on a laptop, it still requires the manufacturer to provide a dedicated antenna.

Therefore, if ordinary consumers buy this modem and install it directly, compatibility problems and poor network problems may result in a poor user experience. Intel stated in the press release that its network communication module uses the technology provided by MediaTek.

Intel actually wanted to build a 5G network card through the M.2 interface. The company and MediaTek began to develop such products in 2019.

It’s just that Qualcomm’s M.2 version of the X65 modem launched by Qualcomm is actually the same as Intel’s solution.

And Qualcomm’s modems also support millimeter-wave networks, while Intel and MediaTek’s models do not, but it stands to reason that MediaTek’s prices will be cheaper.

The first batch of manufacturers to adopt Intel solutions include Acer, Asus, and Hewlett-Packard. These manufacturers have already considered incorporating Intel modules into their designs.

Of course, it is also possible that some manufacturers will adopt Qualcomm’s solutions on higher-end devices. After all, Qualcomm’s solutions are relatively wider in support.

Products for ordinary consumers may use Intel’s solutions, so that end products can be more affordable to promote the adoption of such technologies.

Via: TechCrunch