Intel has created a new Wireless Communications and Computing Group to be headed up by vice president and general manager Ronald J. Smith, Intel announced yesterday.
The wireless division is being created from the former Computing Enhancement Group and will focus on creating cellular and wireless communication products and technologies, Intel said in a statement.
Intel will also completely fold DSP Communications (DSPC) into the new wireless group. Intel bought the company, which makes chipsets, reference designs and software for cellular handset makers, last October for $US1.6 billion.
"Along with DSPC, the wireless group also includes the flash memory division and embedded controllers. What all of these things have in common is the pursuit of wireless opportunities. We have a very clear focus on wireless and cellular," said Intel spokesman Tom Waldrop.
The creation of the wireless group is part of a recent push at Intel to position itself in the expanding wireless market. Along with the DSPC acquisition, Intel opened its technology research and development centre, The Intel Wireless Competence Centre, in Stockholm last month.
Furthermore, Intel -- which has been a member of the Bluetooth Special Interest Group since May 1998 along with eight other technology companies -- demonstrated new products using the short-ranged, radio-based technology at the Bluetooth Designers Conference in Los Angeles this month.
Along with the wireless group, Intel also announced several other changes within the company yesterday. Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Andy D. Bryant's job responsibilities will expand to include heading up Intel's e-business strategy, the company said.
Also, the Network Communications Group will expand to include the Applied Computing Products Division of Intel's Computing Enhancement Group, Intel said. Vice President and General Manager Mark A. Christensen will continue to lead the network group.