The Wi-Fi Alliance has embraced a Wi-Fi/Cellular Convergence plan, reports WiFi Planet.
With devices combining Wi-Fi and cellular links, the Wi-Fi Alliance says it is adapting its certification methods to the ‘unique needs of the cellular industry.’
The Wi-Fi/Cellular Convergence (WCC) task group is focused on “identifying and meeting the cellular industry’s unique certification requirements for Wi-Fi functions” in converged devices, according to a prepared statement from the 200 member plus industry forum.
“The Wi-Fi Alliance has the certification infrastructure in place to advance the cellular industry’s adoption of Wi-Fi in converged Wi-Fi/Cellular products,” said Wi-Fi Alliance Managing Director, Frank Hanzlik.
The first round of certified Wi-Fi/cellular devices went to HP’s iPAQ PocketPC h6315 PDA, Nokia’s 9500 Communicator, and Motorola’s Mpx. Also gaining Wi-Fi Alliance certification is the Intermec 760 mobile computer and the SanDisk Connect Wi-Fi SD card. Nokia’s Communicator and Motorola’s Mpx won’t be available until later this year.
