Verizon Wireless announced the launch of its Verizon Wireless LTE Innovation Center, promising developers online access to collaborative tools and support services for the creation of Long Term Evolution products and solutions. According to Verizon, the center will offer tools to develop LTE technologies across a variety of verticals, including consumer electronics and appliances, healthcare, security and telematics. Along with designing and testing products in a functional LTE lab environment, developers will have access to Verizon resources enabling matchmaking with players across the ecosystem, as well as technical expertise on device/network integration. In addition, the virtual center will interact with complementary efforts like the Verizon Developer Community and open development program. The announcement follows on the heels of news that Verizon will locate its physical LTE Innovation Center in Waltham, Mass.--the center is expected to open in the first half of 2010.
In related news, Verizon Wireless announced the creation of the 4G Venture Forum, a new initiative promising to bring together financial investment, developmental incubation and market validation for products and services earmarked for 4G networks. The 4GVF brings Verizon together with network infrastructure providers Alcatel-Lucent and Ericsson as well as venture funds including Alcatel-Lucent Ventures, Charles River Partners, New Venture Partners, North Bridge Venture Partners, Norwest Venture Partners and Redpoint Ventures. Verizon reports that participants have identified up to $1.3 billion as available for 4GVF development; participating venture capital firms presently have more than $9 billion under management.
For more on Verizon's 4G efforts:
- read this release
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