Summary
Intel Corporation (INTC) has announced its participation in a significant transaction involving Clearwire Corporation and Sprint Nextel Corporation. The core of this event is a proposed merger and asset contribution that will create a new entity, Newco, focused on deploying a nationwide mobile WiMAX network. Intel, through its investment arm Intel Capital, has committed to investing up to $1.0 billion into this new venture. This strategic investment positions Intel as a key stakeholder in the emerging mobile broadband landscape, particularly in the WiMAX technology. The company's involvement is not merely financial; Intel also plans to integrate WiMAX chipsets into its processor technologies and collaborate with OEMs to embed these into laptops and mobile devices, potentially driving adoption of the new network. This move signifies Intel's commitment to expanding its presence beyond traditional computing into the mobile internet space.
Key Highlights
- 1Intel Capital to invest up to $1.0 billion in Newco, a newly formed entity from a Clearwire and Sprint transaction.
- 2Newco will focus on deploying a nationwide mobile WiMAX network for mobile broadband services.
- 3The investment is part of a larger funding round of up to $3.2 billion from various strategic partners including Comcast, Time Warner Cable, and Google.
- 4Intel will work with OEMs to embed WiMAX chipsets into Intel® Centrino 2® processor technology-based laptops and other mobile devices.
- 5Intel will have the option to become a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) to resell Newco LLC’s mobile WiMAX service.
- 6Intel's ownership in Newco is projected to be approximately 12% on a fully diluted basis, subject to stock price adjustments.
- 7Intel will have the right to nominate one director to Newco’s 13-member Board of Directors.