Intel acquires SySDSoft to boost LTE and 4G networks

Intel has invested in Egyptian firm SySDSoft as it seeks to increase its hold on the wireless chip market.

The firm has announced that it has acquired "most of" the assets of the firm, including the hiring of 100 of its engineers and scientists.

SySDSoft makes internet protocol tools for networking software, and physical domain as well as radio frequency and analog circuits for mobile communications.

"The acquisition of engineering and design talent from an Egypt-based company in the field of cutting-edge wireless and communication technology is the first of its kind for Intel in the Middle East," said Arvind Sodhani, president of Intel Capital and executive vice president at Intel.

"The acquisition shows Intel's continued long-term strategic commitment to the region and its appreciation of its young, growing talent pool."

Intel suggested that the technology would be an easy fit for its existing operations, adding that it expected SySDSoft to increase its multi-communications business, in particular its 4G and LTE work.

"As we enter an era of multi-communication broadband solutions, Intel's products and technologies will be important to our vision of billions of connected devices," said Dr Hermann Eul, president of Intel Mobile Communications.

"The acquisition supports this strategy and we believe that SySDSoft's proven and experienced engineering team, combined with Intel Mobile Communications' existing wireless strength, positions us well for continued growth in LTE."

LTE, though currently not available, is expected to be the adopted 4G network in the UK. However, the country is said to be lagging behind its European counterparts.

Half a year after the deal was announced, Intel has also finally completed its massive purchase of security firm McAfee this month.

That deal, worth £4.9bn, shocked experts but is part of Intel's plans to add security at the silicon level.

Separately, a Reuters report claims that Intel has invested in Irish firm Altobridge, which makes hardware for developing nations.

The report said that Intel sees that market as having "huge potential".