Intel unveils new media processor and TV widgets

August 21, 2008 - Intel has introduced its new Intel Media Processor CE 3100, the first in a new family of System on Chips (SoCs) for consumer electronics devices, based on the company's Intel Architecture.

The CE 3100 is developed for Internet-connected consumer electronics such as set-top boxes, digital TVs, optical media players and connected CE devices. The chip, previously codenamed Canmore, supports high-definition video, home-theatre quality audio and 3D graphics, including electronic programme guides, as well as featuring Intel Media Play Technology, which combines hardware-based decoding for broadcast TV and software-based decoding for Internet content. The CE 3100 is expected to start shipping next month, and Intel reports that CE manufacturers including Samsung and Toshiba have already placed orders.

“As consumers look to stay connected and entertained regardless of where they are and what device they are using, the Web continues to affect our lives in new ways and is quickly moving to the TV thanks to a new generation of Internet-connected CE devices,” said Eric Kim, Senior Vice President of Intel and General Manager of the company’s Digital Home Group. “As Intel delivers its first IA SoC with leading-edge performance and Internet compatibility for consumer electronics devices, we are providing a powerful and flexible technology foundation upon which the industry can quickly innovate upon. This technology foundation will help the high-tech industry bring devices to market faster, as well as encourage new designs and inspire new services, such as connecting the TV to the Internet.”

Intel has also previewed an applications framework for televisions and related CE devices, in collaboration with Yahoo!, called the Widget Channel, which enables consumers to access Web content such as Flickr and Tweeter while watching TV programmes. Michael Wolf, Director of market research firm ABI research, commented: "These two companies are looking to extend an approach for accessing Web services that has been successful in the PC and mobile domains. We believe this effort could help jump-start the living room web marketplace, one in which simple, easy-to-use consumer applications will be absolutely critical."