Hot Topic: Consumer Electronics

“Engineers are the creative partners to the global defense value-chain, as we turn consumer electronics into secure, reliable value-driven military applications. Engineers are enabling today's global defense forces to leverage traditional consumer electronics for improved military insight, operations, and in-field capabilities."

Ari Virtanen, an IEEE member, is the Executive Vice President of the Wireless Solutions Business Unit for Elektrobit (EB), a developer of cutting-edge embedded technology solutions for automotive and wireless markets. In this role, Virtanen directs EB’s strategy and long-term solutions planning for the unit’s wireless divisions, including handset reference designs and product platforms, white label handsets, Mobile WiMAX base station technology, R&D services and consultation for handsets and mobile infrastructure. As a member of EB’s Corporate Executive Board, Virtanen is responsible for driving the Company’s mission to enrich people’s lives through innovative technology, products and solutions.

Since joining EB, Virtanen has been tasked with driving mindshare and market share for EB’s wireless solutions in the global marketplace. To expand this business line, he will oversee an international team of engineering, marketing, sales, business development and management professionals; ensuring EB’s wireless innovation addresses localized requirements.

With nearly two decades of wireless expertise, Virtanen brings a wealth of highly technical device and infrastructure knowledge to EB. Prior to joining the company, he spent 19 years with Nokia, where he held executive positions across various business units, including Converged Products, Systems Technologies, as well as Mobile Switching and Network Platforms. Virtanen’s many contributions to Nokia underscore his commitment to wireless product innovation.

Virtanen earned his master’s degree in computer science and industrial economics from Tampere University of Technology in Finland.

Key trends Ari Virtanen can discuss:

• the next big wireless experience in mobile technologies for global defense units;
• technological advancements in mobile devices and communications technologies for global defense and public safety sectors;
• new consumer electronics-based technologies used in defense-based mobile and communications devices, including 3D gaming, haptics and ruggedized materials.