YTL commits to GCT Semiconductor million single-chip order

Posted: February 23rd, 2010 | Filed under: Technology | No Comments »

YTL Communications Sdn Bhd is poised to become the first in the world to launch a nationwide 4G network, offering state-of-the-art mobile internet connectivity to Malaysia.

In a statement today, the communications utility of YTL Power International Bhd said it was committed to purchasing one million units of WiMAX single chips from GCT Semiconductor.

“This purchase agreement demonstrates YTL Communications’ commitment and marks GCT’s dedication to fully support YTL Communications with their deployment of a nationwide 4G service in Malaysia.

“GCT will share technical expertise and provide YTL Communications with the most advanced and lowest power WiMAX chips available on the market today, making YTL Communications’ vision of creating a complete ecosystem with nationwide mobile internet service using 4G a reality,” it said.

The one million units purchased will be consigned to key original design manufacturers selected to provide innovative 4G devices to YTL Communications this year.

GCT is the market leader in providing WiMAX single-chip solutions worldwide, holding the largest market share based on WiMAX chipsets sold and number of WiMAX subscribers currently using GCT’s technology.

In the statement, YTL Communications Chief Executive Officer Wing K Lee said: “Today’s announcement marks another important milestone for YTL Communications.

“Driving economies of scale is central to our ecosystem building effort as we develop the world’s first nationwide 4G network. This significant order — amongst the largest in WiMAX history — ensures our future customers will have the best price-performance in 4G products and solutions.”

GCT President and Chief Executive Officer Dr Kyeongho KH Lee said the one million-unit commitment by YTL Communications would firmly secure GCT’s leading market share position and allow the company to maintain more than 60 per cent market share this year with design wins from over 40 countries including Malaysia, Korea, Japan, Russia and the United States.

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