Next-Gen WiMAX to be 4G Compatible, Offer 1 Gbps Transfers

Think that you’re pimping to the max with your 3G or even your 3.5G compatible handset? Think again, because it seems that there is yet another wireless standard coming down the chute. Based on WiMax, this next WiFi project — dubbed 802.16m — is said to offer wireless data transfer speeds of up to one gigabit per second. At the same time, it’ll boast MIMO (multiple-input, multiple-output) technology and backwards compatibility with existing WiMax products.

The IEEE has been “hard at work” ironing out the details, saying that this will be “compliant with the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) R/IMT advanced requirements for 4G.” It may take a while, though, before we’re rocking 802.16m. They’re planning a 2009 unveiling, but considering that there isn’t even a nationwide 3G blanket yet, I wouldn’t expect to enjoy this next-gen WiMax any time soon.