NVIDIA to launch LTE modem chipset for tablets, laptops

Chipmaker NVIDIA® has announced its first 4G LTE modem chipset for AT&T's network has passed the carrier's qualification tests and should be ready to ship in the near future.

The Icera® 410 LTE chipset is designed for laptop and tablet computers operating on AT&T's 4G LTE network and is the first to implement NVIDIA's software defined radio baseband processor. According to the chipmaker, the new technology will deliver "lightning-fast web browsing, video streaming and multiplayer gaming" on tablet computers and laptops.

"Validation with AT&T is an achievement that paves the way for NVIDIA Icera-powered LTE devices on the AT&T network through this year and next," says NVIDIA Mobile Communication senior vice president Stan Boland, in a statement.

This development extends NVIDIA's standing in the mobile chip market, an area in which NVIDIA CEO Jen-Hsun Huang expects his company to have a breakout year in 2012. In addition to the Icera 410, NVIDIA released its Tegra™ 3 processor for tablet computers in late 2011. The chip, which has been incorporated into tablets this year, offers enhanced graphics, low energy consumption and robust computing power.