Matt Chapman at vnunet.com reports today that the Wi-Fi Alliance and the Cellular Telecommunications and Internet Association (CTIA) are joining forces to set up test and certification programmes for converged mobile and Wi-Fi handsets.

"The initial focus of this cooperation will be on radio frequency performance mapping in a mixed network environment," according to a joint statement. "Future work will explore other technology challenges of convergence, such as handover between cellular and Wi-Fi networks, cross-radio signal sensitivity and battery life."

The Wi-Fi Alliance's Managing Director, Frank Hanzlik, says the agreement was made in response to a growing need in the industry. "As more converged phones become available, and carriers announce plans to support convergence, cross-industry collaboration becomes critical to address pressing technological challenges," he says.

And Robert Mesirow, Vice President of Operations at the CTIA, says, "By combining our knowledge bases we can ensure that carriers and subscribers alike have the best possible experience with converged devices."