The first of these products, WiLink 6.0, is a single-chip addition to TI's mobile WLAN (mWLAN) family that integrates mobile WLAN, Bluetooth and FM, with support for IEEE draft 802.11n for better coverage and reception, TI said. The second product is the BlueLink 7.0 solution, the latest version of TI's BlueLink Bluetooth single-chip family that integrates Bluetooth and FM, according to the company. The FM functionality in both devices delivers FM transmit and receive capabilities, turning the handset into a personal area broadcast device, TI said.

According to TI (Dallas), the integration of mWLAN, Bluetooth and FM on the WiLink 6.0 will enable handset manufacturers to seamlessly integrate these three functions into mainstream cellular handsets. WiLink 6.0 will also help reduce dropped calls, lowering support costs for these newer, more complex dual-mode solutions, according to the company.

WiLink 6.0 and BlueLink 7.0 share the same Bluetooth and FM core solution, allowing customers to capitalize on their past and future software investments in a versatile manner, TI said.

"The phone is now the consumer's center of gravity—the one device they use to entertain, connect and access information. With the WiLink 6.0 single chip, TI is enabling true voice over IP and personal audio broadcasting—allowing people to use their phone in ways they never have before," said Marc Cetto, general manager of TI's mobile connectivity solutions.

"Mobile devices with both WLAN and Bluetooth are primarily found in the high-end of the global handset market today," said Neil Mawston, associate director of the global wireless practice at market research firm Strategy Analytics. "A more affordable, integrated mWLAN and Bluetooth solution, such as TI's new WiLink 6.0 single chip, should help push these key technologies toward the mid- and low-tier segments, and into the hands of more mass-market users."

Citing data from market research firm Forward Concepts, TI said it leads the market in mobile WLAN shipments for handset applications, according to Forward Concepts. The new WiLink 6.0 device leverages this experience and is designed to meet increasing consumer demand for PC-style high-throughput connectivity on the go without compromising battery life, the company said.

BlueLink 7.0, designed with TI's DRP technology, cuts power consumption by 20 percent over previous generations in critical modes of operation, according to TI. It also provides superior "class 1.5" functionality, which enables high transmit power without an additional external power amplifier, delivering improved sensitivity and RF performance, the company said.

Handsets are expected to be on the market with TI's WiLink 6.0 and BlueLink 7.0 in 2008.

Broadcom last week introduced a new chip that combines Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and FM, dubbed the BCM4325.