WiMAX, also known as the IEEE 802.16 standard, is expected to provide data rates of about 70 Mbits per second over a range of about 20 to 30 miles, with lower data rates on the periphery of the network. Intel said in September that it expects to bring its first WiMAX chips to market during the second half of this year.

The technology is expected to complement WiFi, as a wireless broadband solution for the home.

"Alcatel's vision is to put the users at the center," said Marc Rouanne, chief operating officer of Alcatel's mobile activities, in a statement. "Our cooperation with Intel will help us provide users with a seamless broadband access experience, whether in the office, at home, stationary or on the move."