MediaTek goes to startup for charging tech

LONDON – Fabless communications chip company MediaTek Inc. has entered into technology transfer and licensing agreement with WiTricity Corp., a spin off from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, on wireless charging.

MediaTek (Hsinchu, Taiwan) said it will collaborate with WiTricity (Watertown, Mass.) on the development and marketing of chips optimized for WiTricity's patented technology for wireless charging over distance. WiTricity was founded in 2007 to commercialize technology developed by company founder Professor Marin Soljacic.

MediaTek said it will create wireless charging technology aimed at mobile handsets, tablet computers, game controllers, digital cameras and personal navigation devices, but did not say when the technology would be available for purchase.

The idea of wireless charging has been pursued by a number of companies and usually involves a form of inductive loop connection between mains supply and a receiver unit built into the handset. In this way phones and tablets could be charged as the sit on a suitably engineered tray or platter.

"Our vision is to enable mobile devices to be totally wireless – no charging cords needed," said David Ku, chief financial officer and spokesperson for MediaTek, in a statement. "Wireless charging will become an essential built-in function for next generation mobile devices," he added.

"Space inside a smart phone is some of the most valuable real estate in the world. MediaTek’s semiconductor solutions can minimize the cost and device space required for wireless charging functionality," said Eric Giler, CEO of WiTricity, in the same statement.


Related links and articles:

www.witricity.com

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