Intel's core processors power 80 percent of the world's PCs. However, since growth in that market has started to plateau due to customers buying tablets, the company is getting ready to start a new business venture.
Intel is eager to sell processors intended for smartphones, set-top boxs and other connected devices. The new chips for servers will be used to stream movies and other content. Intel’s new chips combined with a TV service that includes a set-top box employing technology will be able to distinguish who is watching, and as a result could potentially allowing Intel to target advertising.
This new project won’t be the company’s first time making processors for set-top boxes. For instance, Comcast announced the gradual rollout of an Intel-based set-top box that customers can control with their smartphones. The set-top box, called "X1," will rely on data centers packed with high-end servers, which are typically Intel chips.
Intel’s new business opportunity will not be limited to home entertainment. Digital signs, tablets and cars are among other areas increasingly connected to the Internet, which will ultimately increase the demand for Intel chips.
For more information, see the article, “Intel CFO eyes more connected living rooms” by Noel Randewich.
