SAN FRANCISCO: The Intel Developer Forum (IDF) provided a sneak peek into the future by showcasing prototypes of tomorrow's technology to developer and independent software vendor (ISV) communities.
These prototypes are expected to prompt developers to work on cutting-edge technologies in areas such as digital home, wireless devices and create new uses and applications around these technological advancements.
More than 5,000 technology enthusiasts and analysts attended the Forum, which concluded here on Thursday. Over 170 companies participated in the technology showcase category - highlighting cutting-edge technological advancements and opening a window to the future.
"In all the IDFs our primary objective has always been to provide the latest information and technological update for the developer and the ISV community," said Justin Rattner, senior fellow and chief technology officer, Intel.
"So they can built different solutions and design applications around these technological advancements. This IDF is special as we have introduced the core micro architecture and the advantages of efficient energy management," he added.
IDF showcased small and better form factor and wireless capabilities for different devices, which would ensure improved performance. This also indicates that laptops and cell phones, which now form an integral part of our lives, will be changing fast.
Subsequently, a road warrior will soon be seen carrying laptops with articulating screens designed smaller to fit in easy-to-carry bags.
"With more energy efficient micro architecture - the microchips inside are going to be more efficient to extend the life of batteries in devices like laptops and cell phones. And wireless Internet connections will cover wider areas and will be more reliable," Rattner said.
According to Sean Maloney, Intel's executive vice president, the industry and customers are demanding devices that can boot rapidly. "So as we move along, the overall ecosystem with Intel would work towards delivering these capabilities," he said.
WiMAX vrooms
Intel also showcased a battery-powered scooter equipped with a WiMAX connected laptop. WiMAX is the next generation of wireless Internet with greater range as compared to Wi-Fi. A screen fitted to the scooter can display live images from the Internet, so as you ride around, a camera can send live video to your personal website, instantly sharing your travel experiences in the form of pictures.
Intel is floating ideas like WiMAX-connected scooters, hoping to inspire more minds to innovate. The company is already involved in setting standards for the WiMAX and is working with the various stakeholders in order to deliver better WiMAX capabilities globally.
Digital home: A seamless vision
Intel's Digital Home executive Don McDonald demonstrated the ease with which a networked Intel Viiv PC could be set up. He was delivering a keynote address on the possibilities of the digital home segment at IDF.
McDonald also showcased how a future Viiv user could order his or her TV to record shows without hitting any buttons. However, the microphone/remote control combination might need to go back to the lab for some adjustments before the next IDF.
Stress on user experience
Intel is relying a lot on its users to improvise. With the help of its researcher community, the company is trying to inject intelligence while deciding on designing device principles.
"When it comes to areas like digital home - it is very important for a company like Intel - to know what people think about technology. How do they perceive better technology and what are the deciding factors involved in this process? We have a global team of 10 researchers whose job is to look around for answers to some of these questions," said Genevieve Bell, director, User Experience, Intel.
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