Intel updates on Sandy Bridge

IDF Beijing: Perlmutter is having visions again.

Intel announced its "Vision of the Future" services in a keynote speech at this year's Intel Developers Forum (IDF) yesterday.

David Perlmutter, executive vice president and co-general manager of the Intel architecture group, announced a slew of services couched in Mystic Meg style predictions.

Perlmutter touched on Sandy Bridge, Intel's next processor line due for manufacturing later this year. This will have Intel's Hi-K 32nm technology and support advanced vector extension instructions. The processor will also offer Intel's sixth-generation graphics core.

Intel will also join the Smart TV brigade with its Atom CE4100 system on a chip (SoC) processor set to be bundled into set top boxes and Blu-ray drives. The processor is designed to deliver ultra low power consumption performance but still be capable of HD visuals, graphics and audio decoding.

Perlmutter then wrapped up with word of a PC manufacturer partnership to co-develop a "convertible classmate PC". Intel is working with Tongfang and Hanvon to build a model with improved e-reading functionality.

The second keynote was delivered by Renee James, senior vice president and general manager of the software and services group at Intel. James believes the industry has endorsed Intel and Nokia's merged open source projects. She said Meego was already good to go with a host of OEM partners in the bag.

She ended her speech with news that Chinese ISVs and developers can submit applications for Intel's Atom developer programme. Although that's still in beta, applications can be made and circulated on Intel's Appup Centre.