Wozniak Mounts a Comeback

Steve Wozniak, who along with Steve Jobs started Apple Computer Inc., is getting back in the technology startup game after years of retirement.

On Wednesday Wozniak announced the formation of “Wheels of Zeus” (wOz), a company aimed at creating consumer and enterprise products using wireless technology.

According to the company, Wheels of Zeus will leverage “the convergence of wireless networks, the Internet and other emerging technologies to design devices and services accessible to all.” The companys Web site (www.woz.com) currently redirects visitors to Steve Wozniaks personal Web site, (www.woz.org), where at this writing there appear to be no details on the new company.

In a written statement issued Wednesday, Wozniak said, “wOz is designing new consumer electronics wireless products that will have universal appeal among consumers and corporations alike. Recent advances in global positioning software systems and antenna technology coupled with the declining cost of processing power and two-way networking make the possibilities for new devices and services really exciting.”

According to a published report on the New York Times Web site, Wozniak said wOz would likely not market its own products right away, but instead would seek licensing and marketing arrangements with other companies.

A representative for wOz was not immediately available for comment.

The startup has received $6 million in funding from Mobius Venture Capital, Draper Fisher Jurvetson and Palo Alto Investors.

Greg Galanos, managing director at Mobius Venture Capital, will join Wozniak on the wOz board. Tim Draper, founder and managing director at Draper Fisher Jurvetson, has been named chairman of the companys new advisory board.