Intel's financial support helps explain the excitement. Problem is, the wide-radius, superfast "WiFi on steroids" still has a long way to go. Via [businessweek.com]

A problem with some Linksys wireless routers is causing angst to end users. Via [theinquirer.net]

Wireless networking products are never modest in their performance claims. However, Belkin's new Wireless Pre-N Router ($150) and Notebook Network Card ($100) promise--and deliver--dramatically faster speeds and much better range than their fastest 802.11g predecessors. Via [pcworld.com]

Netgear has announced a Power Over Ethernet (PoE) solution for small businesses designed to ease installation of WLANs by allowing wireless access points to be installed anywhere, even in locations unreachable by power outlets. Via [networkingpipeline.com]

Wireless-network test-system developer Azimuth Systems today launched a benchmark test platform for testing VoIP (voice over Internet protocol) in Wi-Fi settings. The company claims that the W-Series wireless-LAN test platform validates both VoWLAN handsets and Wi-Fi infrastructure gear. Via [edn.com]

Wibhu Technologies Inc., a Wi-Fi network infrastructure company founded in Pune, India, has renamed itself AirTight Networks Inc. and brought in David King as its new chairman and chief executive officer. Via [commsdesign.com]

The Netvigator service is receiving a $40m boost from its parent company, amid concern that a nationwide rollout has been shelved. Via [news.zdnet.co.uk]

Jeff Thompson may be afraid of heights, but he appears to be at home on the 81st-floor terrace of the Empire State Building. Via [news.com.com]

Bluetooth -- a short-range wireless technology -- is finally coming of age. Via [mercurynews.com]

Baggage handlers are moving more than your bags at Toronto's Pearson International Airport these days. They're also moving megabytes worth of information about them. Via [globetechnology.com]

BT has added BT Mobile business subscribers to the list of customers to whom it is offering Wi-Fi access for a pound a month. Via [theregister.co.uk]

Wireless telecommunications passed a milestone of sorts this fall, with spending on wireless outpacing wired solutions for the first time, according to a study from TNS Telecoms. While the study did not address Wi-Fi directly, its authors say the wireless-spending numbers could have positive implications for the world of WLAN. Via [internetnews.com]

SBC Communications has teamed with Barnes & Noble and Avis Rent A Car System to expand its FreedomLink Wi-Fi service offering. In separate deals, Barnes & Noble now is offering SBC wireless access at several hundred bookstores across the United States, while Avis has agreed to make the service available at up to 88 Avis...

Philadelphia's plan to offer inexpensive wireless Internet as a municipal service - the most ambitious yet by a major U.S. city - has collided with commercial interests including the local phone company, Verizon Communications Inc. Via [seattlepi.nwsource.com]

Revenue for WiFi hardware has grown 9% in the past year, with WiFi switches up 80%, according to a report by Infonetics Research. Cisco remains the top seller of WLAN hardware, with 16% of the market, and had a second consecutive $100-million-plus quarter, the report said. Linksys, which is owned by Cisco, was in second...