Apple confirmed the acquisition of Intel’s modem division in a press release.
Apple is taking over most of Intel's modem division for around one billion US dollars - the deal should be completed in the fourth quarter of 2019, as approval from the regulatory authorities is required - both companies confirmed this yesterday evening. By purchasing the modem division, Apple will gain around 17,000 patents for wireless technologies and around 2,200 employees. The agreement states that Apple will take over the majority of Intel's smartphone modem business for one billion US dollars. However, Intel will retain the opportunity to develop modems for PCs and autonomous vehicles. Johny Srouji, Senior Vice President of Hardware Technologies, announced Apple's enthusiasm for Intel's "excellent engineers" in the press release. It says:
We have worked with Intel for many years and know that this team shares Apple's passion for developing technologies that give our users the best experiences in the world. Apple is excited to have so many excellent engineers join our growing mobile technologies group and knows they will thrive in Apple's creative and dynamic environment. Together with our significant acquisition of innovative IP, they will help accelerate our development for future products and enable Apple to further differentiate itself," said Srouji.
The takeover was announced earlier this week in a report in the Wall Street Journal - but official confirmation was expected next week. The negotiations are said to have lasted for over a year. According to rumors, Apple is still planning to develop its own modem - in order to become more independent. Intel's engineers and patents should be a great help in this. However, it remains unknown when we can expect the first market-ready Apple modem. (Photo by Unsplash)
