Driven by 802.11n Technology, Worldwide Wireless LAN Semiconductor Market Will Experience Double-Digit Growth Through 2012, IDC Predicts

Business Wire, Oct 20, 2008

FRAMINGHAM, Mass. -- The worldwide wireless LAN (WLAN) semiconductor market is expected to pass the $4 billion mark by 2012 with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 22.8%. While PCs will remain the largest application segment for WLAN semiconductors, mobile phone applications will grow at a CAGR of 49.3% and become the second-largest category for WLAN semiconductor revenue by 2012. IDC expects the MIMO-enhanced 802.11n technology to be the next growth driver for this market as the higher throughput and range provide a great opportunity for new applications and usage models.

"The need for connectivity and connected mobile clients continues to fuel the WLAN semiconductor market," said Ajit Deosthali, research manager for Short Range Wireless Semiconductors at IDC. "WLAN adoption is set to grow beyond notebook PC and into the mobile phone and consumer electronics devices."

Among other key findings are the following:

* WiFi is set to take off in mobile handsets with dual-mode phones that provide both conventional cellular and WLAN connectivity

* Connectivity is the fastest-growing segment for semiconductor companies, with WLAN leading the way. Mobile handsets and mobile internet devices will lead integration of WiFi radio with other radio technologies such as Bluetooth, FM, and GPS for personal area networks.

IDC's study, Worldwide WLAN Semiconductor 2008-2012 Forecast (Doc # 214316), forecasts worldwide WLAN semiconductor market from 2008 through 2012 and discusses assumptions and major market trends. The study presents revenue and shipment forecast data by end application and technology standard.

About IDC

IDC is the premier global provider of market intelligence, advisory services, and events for the information technology, telecommunications, and consumer technology markets. IDC helps IT professionals, business executives, and the investment community make fact-based decisions on technology purchases and business strategy. More than 1,000 IDC analysts provide global, regional, and local expertise on technology and industry opportunities and trends in over 100 countries. For more than 44 years, IDC has provided strategic insights to help our clients achieve their key business objectives. IDC is a subsidiary of IDG, the world's leading technology media, research, and events company. You can learn more about IDC by visiting www.idc.com.

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