Feature Article

Free eNews Subscription>>
November 05, 2015

FreedomPop to Launch Intel-Powered Smartphone Optimized for Wi-Fi Networks

If you haven’t heard of FreedomPop, it’s a relatively new start-up service provider that operates exclusively on data networks and is quickly gaining clout in the industry. The company recently announced a partnership with Intel to develop and launch its own FreedomPop-branded smartphone early next year that will be optimized for usage as a Wi-Fi device, since Wi-Fi networks are the primary use case for its customers.

FreedomPop customers are provided with a relatively low amount of minutes and data for free and charged for any overuse or additional services. FreedomPop users’ calls are instead routed over the Internet. Customers are encouraged to use Wi-Fi networks; there is no charge for using wireless data, as opposed to traditional cellular networks.

The new smartphone will feature a Intel processor, making this upcoming product launch an important occasion for both companies; Intel has enjoyed longstanding success with its chips in computers but has struggled to break into the smartphone market, and this partnership with an innovative up-and-coming service provider (in addition to the recent introduction of its smartphone-optimized SoFIA line of processors) is the ideal move for facilitating that. Meanwhile, FreedomPop’s introduction of its own smartphone will solidify its spot in the market and cultivate brand awareness so the company can continue expanding its services.

“Mobile consumers continue to look for more ways to save on mobile bills, and a Wi-Fi-first smartphone allows them to use a more cost-effective network,” said Sam Spangler, General Manager of Intel’s phone division. “We look forward to working jointly with FreedomPop in improving the customer’s Wi-Fi-first experience via this new smartphone utilizing FreedomPop’s Wi-Fi network.”

Stephen Stokols, CEO of FreedomPop, is fully aware how important this new smartphone is for Intel, commenting: “It may mean more to Intel than it does to FreedomPop in some respects. We are going to showcase their technology more than they could on their own, for sure.”

A “well-known device manufacturer” will actually build the smartphone, but FreedomPop has so far declined to release the name of the company. In fact, most details regarding the product are still under wraps. However, we do know that it will be optimized for Wi-Fi usage and carry a price tag of less than $200. FreedomPop currently serves the U.S. via Sprint’s network and the U.K. through a partnership with European carrier Three, for when customers are not using a Wi-Fi network. The company hinted at expansion into more markets internationally, which will likely coincide with the launch of its new smartphone.




Edited by Kyle Piscioniere


FOLLOW MobilityTechzone

Subscribe to MobilityTechzone eNews

MobilityTechzone eNews delivers the latest news impacting technology in the Wireless industry each week. Sign up to receive FREE breaking news today!
FREE eNewsletter