NXP Semiconductors, formerly Philips Semiconductors, announced an enhanced system solution that enables mobile users to simultaneously take advantage of handsets' Bluetooth and Wireless LAN capabilities. The NXP Nexperia cellular system solution 5210 allows devices to be used at home over fixed-line broadband connections and while on-the-move via a cellular network. The simultaneous usage of WLAN and Bluetooth enables users to make calls using a Bluetooth headset.

To overcome the challenges of operating WLAN and Bluetooth in the same frequency band and physical co-location without degrading data throughput or voice/audio quality, NXP has integrated a complex set of coexistence algorithms into the 5210's baseband. This enables both connectivity functions to operate simultaneously without interference. Additional algorithms have been added specifically for voice applications, ensuring clear communications when using a Bluetooth headset.

NXP's solution incorporates an unlicensed mobile access (UMA) software stack from Kineto Wireless, that automatically switches between cellular networks and Wi-Fi hotspots, automatically detecting the fastest and most cost-effective network. The 5210 solution has a small form factor and can be easily integrated into new devices. Combining a powerful single core with NXP's BGB210S for advanced Bluetooth 2.0 EDR and NXP's 802.11g WLAN (BGW211) with low-power performance, NXP's system solution delivers a rich multimedia experience on mobile devices.

"Bluetooth's ease of use has led to a high attach rate in mobile devices, with Bluetooth enabled headsets also growing in popularity," said Christophe Joyau, international product marketing, NXP Semiconductors. "The ability to multitask has become invaluable to personal and business users alike, with new converged services offering a host of user experiences around Bluetooth and WLAN in mobile phones. Our 5210 solution is in tune with this trend, and enables mobile users to experience multiple functions over Bluetooth and WLAN, with little or no loss of sound quality and data rate."

The UMA/Bluetooth enhanced platform will be available in the first half of 2007. NXP will showcase the technology at the upcoming 3GSM tradeshow.