During keynote presentations recently at the Intel Developer Forum, Intel Corporation executives outlined several software- and hardware-related efforts as the company intensifies its System-on-a-Chip (SoC) product plans based on the Intel Atom processor family. Amid predictions of billions of additional Internet-connected devices going online, Renée James, senior vice president and general manager, Intel Software and Services Group, and Doug Davis, vice president and general manager, Embedded and Communications Group, discussed the expansion of these processors into high-growth areas including netbooks, tablets, CE, embedded, and smart phones.
James: The Best Experiences Are Created on Intel Architecture
During her keynote at Moscone Center West in San Francisco, James outlined how tightly integrated and optimized software and platforms will deliver new levels of performance, along with fresh capabilities and the importance of creating an innovative experience across the personal computing continuum -“ from PCs to smart phones to tablets and cars, as well as any number of Internet-connected consumer devices.
Emphasizing a seamless experience across operating systems, James introduced general availability of the Intel AppUp center netbook app store for consumers. The Intel AppUp center includes both free and paid apps for entertainment, social networking, gaming and productivity, optimized for a netbook’s mobility and screen size.
During her keynote, James highlighted the Intel AppUp Developer Program, designed to drive innovative applications for end users and new revenue opportunities for independent developers and software vendors with programs such as the Intel Million Dollar Development fund. Rick Vanner from The Game Creators was recognized as winner of the “Most Innovative Application” in the Intel Atom Developer Challenge for his game titled, “Goals.” James also introduced the “On Intel AppUp” ISV identifier, designed to help developers promote their applications on Intel AppUp center.
Davis: Smart, Connected, Transformed Experiences
Discussing the important role the Intel Atom brand plays in delivering intelligent computing to connected devices everywhere, Davis outlined the complete Intel Atom processor line and how the company is delivering solutions based on Intel architecture beyond the PC. Davis also emphasized how Intel Atom processor-based solutions can provide the ideal platform for Internet connectivity, intelligence, and ease of design with customer port of choice.
During his keynote, Davis launched “Tunnel Creek,” a new Intel Atom E600 SoC processor series developed specifically for embedded applications such as in-vehicle infotainment systems for cars, smart grid devices and IP media phones. The SoC integrates additional capabilities onto the chip and features an open interconnect for added flexibility. Making it easier to design and customize with these new products, Vendors including OKI Semiconductor, Realtek Semiconductor and S icroelectronics will offer interconnect chipsets, and other companion silicon offerings from Dialog Semiconductorand ROHM Co. will regulate voltages and synchronize clocks, according to Davis.
Davis went on to unveil details of an upcoming new configurable Atom processor, codenamed “Stellarton.” The processor consists of the Atom E600 processor paired with an Altera FPGA on a multi-chip package; which provides additional flexibility for customers who want to incorporate proprietary I/O or acceleration and enabling developers to differentiate their designs by reacting quickly to changing requirements.
Davis also introduced the Intel Atom processor CE4200, formerly codenamed “Groveland,” which is designed to help seamlessly integrate the Internet experience with TV.
The SoC includes 3-D support, H.264 high-definition encoding capability for usage models such as “sync-and-go” between networked consumer electronics and portable devices, and multiple input stream support to enable the design of cost-effective home gateway appliances. To help address regulatory requirements, the SoC features smart power management capabilities that automatically help to turn off parts of the chip when not in use. A software development kit and familiar tools for integrating applications is also available which OEMs can re-use across products, cutting development time. Davis announced ADB, Samsung, Sagemcom and Technicolor plan to build set-top boxes based on the new SoC.
Microsoft, Dell and Visteon joined Davis on stage during his keynote. Microsoft announced they have ported Windows Embedded Standard 7 and Windows Media Center on Intel architecture and demonstrated prototype devices from Acer and ASUS. Dell previewed their upcoming Intel Atom processor-based Dell convertible mobile device, expected to be available later this year. Visteon demonstrated the use of the E600 series processor in a next-generation automotive infotainment platform. Davis also highlighted mobility products based on the upcoming Intel SoC, codenamed “Oak Trail.” Touting Intel’s port of choice message, mobile device demonstrations included an ExoPC running Microsoft Windows Embedded Standard 7, a WeTab running MeeGo and a Cisco Cius running Android.
