Chipmaker Broadcom on Monday unveiled a new processor that integrates all key 3G cellular and mobile technologies onto a single chip. Dubbed the BCM21551, Broadcom's "3G phone on a chip" will not only incorporate high-speed network connectivity, FM receiving and transmitting, Bluetooth 2.1 and more on one 65nm die, but it will do so with extremely low power requirements.
The BCM21551 lacks support for EV-DO, but can handle EDGE, HSUPA, HSDPA, and WCDMA traffic. The device also features advanced multimedia processing, up to 5-megapixel camera support and 30-frame-per-second video capability.
Broadcom said the 65-nm design allows cell phone makers to build new 3G phones in more compact form factors with very long battery lives for fraction of what it costs today. The new processor is available now to early access customers and is priced at $23.00 in large quantities.