Fujitsu Finalizes Wi-LAN Buy

Staff Reporter -- Electronic News, 5/31/2006

Fujitsu Microelectronics of America has completed its purchase of Canadian wireless player Wi-LAN Inc.'s entire technology development division for $2 million, the companies announced Monday.  

The sale includes all 802.16d-like, standards-based MAC and PHY technologies. The acquisition also includes the contracts for Wi-LAN's entire technology development staff, which will now form a new wholly owned subsidiary, Fujitsu Microelectronics Canada Inc., in Calgary, Canada.     

The sale of Wi-LAN's technology development division finalizes "the transformation of Wi-LAN into a pure patent licensing company," Dr. Hatim Zaghloul, chairman of the board of directors of Wi-LAN, said in a statement. Wi-LAN did not include any of its patents in the transaction with Fujitsu Microelectronics. 

The sale ensures that Fujitsu Microelectronicsis now the only semiconductor manufacturer that is selling 802.16d chips licensed by Wi-LAN, the company boasted.

The companies have collaborated since 2002; this sale agreement supersedes all prior agreements between the two companies.