TAIPEI, TAIWAn: Intel Corporation has announced agreements with government and industry in Taiwan intended to extend Taiwan’s position as a leading center for developing and deploying the world’s next generation of connected devices and related technologies.

Intel President and CEO Paul Otellini announced that Intel has signed an agreement with the Taiwan Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) to jointly establish an enabling centre for Moblin, open source software and applications optimized for Intel Atom processor-based devices.

New software and applications are needed to deliver a richer, on-the-go Internet experience on the next generation of connected devices including Atom-based mobile Internet devices, netbooks, nettops and in-vehicle-infotainment systems.

Otellini also announced that, subject to closing conditions, Intel’s global investment organization, Intel Capital, intends to invest NT$386 million (US$11.5 million1) in Taiwanese carrier VMAX. Intel Capital’s intended investment and Intel’s accompanying business engagement will enable VMAX to deploy Taiwan’s first mobile WiMAX network, intended to be commercially available within the first half of next year.

“As the Internet evolves, the industry has an opportunity to deliver what consumers are seeking – a fast, seamless and personal mobile Internet experience, regardless of device or location,” said Otellini. “Intel and Taiwan will continue to collaborate to create growth opportunities for the industry.”

“With its robust industry ecosystem and ability to commercialize innovation, Taiwan has become a center for design and manufacturing of devices for the worldwide market,” said Yiin Chi-Ming, Minister of the Taiwan MOEA. “With a shared vision to accelerate mobility industry momentum, our collaboration with Intel positions Taiwan to further capitalize on opportunities created by the next phase of the Internet.”

With Intel and the MOEA’s support, the Moblin Enabling Center’s laboratory and its engineers will train and consult to device and software vendors, resulting in faster time to market for Moblin-based devices powered by Intel Atom processors. Intel’s support of the center includes engineering talent, software development resources and software contributions to moblin.org.