Intel and Tsinghua Unigroup to accelerate development and adoption of Intel-based mobile devices

SANTA CLARA, USA: Intel Corp. and Tsinghua Unigroup Ltd, a solely state-owned limited liability corporation funded by Tsinghua University inChina, jointly announced that both parties have signed a series of agreements.

The purpose of the agreements is to expand the product offerings and adoption for Intel-based mobile devices inChina and worldwide by jointly developing Intel Architecture and communications-based solutions for mobile phones. Intel also has agreed to invest up to RMB 9 billion (about $1.5 billion) for a minority stake of approximately 20 percent of the holding company under Tsinghua Unigroup which will own Spreadtrum Communications and RDA Microelectronics, subject to regulatory approvals and other closing conditions.

Both Spreadtrum and RDA, controlled by Tsinghua Unigroup, are leading fabless semiconductor companies inChina, which develop mobile chipset platforms for smart phones, feature phones and other consumer electronics products, supporting 2G, 3G and 4G wireless communications standards.

"China is now the largest consumption market for smartphones and has the largest number of Internet users in the world," said Brian Krzanich, Intel CEO. "These agreements with Tsinghua Unigroup underscore Intel's 29-year-long history of investing in and working inChina. This partnership will also enhance our ability to support a wider range of mobile customers inChina and the rest of the world by more quickly delivering a broader portfolio of Intel architecture and communications technology solutions."