It seems that for 2012 Intel has a quite aggressive strategy to bring in more revenue and become leader in several industries. The company already announced the first smartphone to carry an Intel logo on the back, coming only in a few months with Orange. But that was just the first step. The company just announced its decision to commit $100 million to car technology development.
Arvind Sodhani, president of Intel Capital and Intel executive vice president, explained: “Technology has become an integral component of everyday life, with consumers demanding uninterrupted access to the Internet and the constant flow of information, news” and so on. So, it only makes senses that “automobiles must be able to provide these same consistent and engaging computing experiences, but in a safer manner”.
That is the purpose Intel is following with its $100 million Intel Capital Connected Car Fund: to “drive the development of technologies to enhance the in-vehicle experience of the future”. Over the next 4 to 5 years, Intel’s car fund will support hardware, software and services acquisitions and research to find that breakthrough technology.
Karlsruhe, Germany will be the company’s new product development center. Intel President and CEO Paul Otellini explained that opening the “Automotive Innovation and Product Development Center, Intel is deepening its understanding of how people interact with their cars and how Intel innovations can enhance the automotive experience”.
Truth be told, consumers are already carrying their high tech gadgets in the car and more often than not they even use them while driving. And since the present day auto market features only cars with inset computers and all sort of buttons, it’s only a matter of time before you’ll be able to drive your car and send texts without actually touching the pad of your phone.
Staci Palmer is general manager of Intel’s automotive solutions division. She said: “The car is the ultimate mobile device. By 2014, automobiles will be among the top three fastest growing areas for connected devices and internet content”.
Intel’s recent first steps in two new industries are an obvious sign the chipmaker is looking to develop new revenue sources as the PC market continues to decline. Intel has already announced that BMW, Hyundai, Toyota and Kia have agreed to implement the company’s technology in cars.
