Alcatel-Lucent in small-cell mobile tech pact with Qualcomm

Wireless technology leaders Alcatel-Lucent and Qualcomm Technologies Inc, a subsidiary of Qualcomm Incorporated, today announced plans to jointly develop next-generation of small cells for ultra-broadband wireless access.

Alcatel-Lucent and Qualcomm Technologies Inc will jointly develop 3G/4G base stations to enhance wireless connectivity in residential and enterprise environments such as campuses and retail locations.

The collaboration will leverage Alcatel-Lucent's proven expertise and innovation in developing small cell solutions and Qualcomm Technologies' capabilities in mobile and networking technologies, to enable ultra-broadband wireless communications, the two said in a joint communication.

The development of small cells will enhance wireless network reception in environments such as urban areas, shopping malls and other enterprise venues and will supplement the growing popularity of smart phones, tablets and other mobile devices using high-bandwidth video and gaming applications.

Wireless network operators and service providers are looking to small cells to cost-effectively meet the rapidly expanding demand for mobile data capacity and network coverage, the companies noted.

Alcatel-Lucent and Qualcomm Technologies intend to accelerate the adoption of small cells to facilitate easier transfer of mobile data on wireless networks. 

Towards this, the two companies plan to jointly invest in a strategic R&D programme to develop the next generation of Alcatel-Lucent lightRadio Small Cell products featuring Qualcomm Technologies' FSM9900 family of small cell chipsets.

''This initiative perfectly illustrates 'The Shift Plan' we announced last month, which will see Alcatel-Lucent focus on growth technologies, including those facilitating ultra-broadband access,'' Michel Combes, CEO of Alcatel-Lucent, said, adding, ''We would also actively seek collaboration with key industry players.''

''Small cells greatly increase capacity by bringing the network closer to the user, thus enabling operators to serve the anticipated 1000x growth in mobile data traffic and dramatically improving the experience for wireless subscribers,'' said Paul E Jacobs, chairman and CEO of Qualcomm Incorporated.

Qualcomm Incorporated, the world leader in 3G, 4G and next-generation wireless technologies, has been driving the evolution of digital communications for the past 25 years.

Paris, France-based Alcatel-Lucent is a global communications giant, providing products and innovations in IP and cloud networking, as well as ultra-broadband fixed and wireless access to service providers and their customers, enterprises and institutions throughout the world.

Alcatel-Lucent, listed on the Paris and New York stock exchanges, had revenues of €14.4 billion in 2012.