Intel Invests In New Research Centers

While working on its new CPUs and marketing existing ones, Intel seems to be enjoying something of a respite, one that it, apparently, decided to fill with new research projects and investments.

There are many things that large companies like Intel occupy themselves with, and this extends to more than just making the newest and best CPU yet.

While the upcoming chip series have spawned their share of press releases and rumors, they are not all that their maker is working on.

What Intel most recently announced is somewhat related to its main focus but, at the same time, extends beyond just its own set of concerns.

More specifically, the Santa Clara, California-based chip giant has decided to invest $30 million into the two newly announced Intel Science and Technology Centers (ISTC), located at Carnegie Mellon University.

The investment will be done over a period of five years and the centers will be tasked with researching cloud computing and embedded applications.

“These new ISTCs are expected to open amazing possibilities,” said Justin Rattner, Intel Chief Technology Officer.

“Imagine, for example, future cars equipped with embedded sensors and microprocessors to constantly collect and analyze traffic and weather data. That information could be shared and analyzed in the cloud so that drivers could be provided with suggestions for quicker and safer routes.”

This investment is the latest in Intel's plan to eventually complete its $100 million ISTC program meant to speed up innovation and university research. Projects envisioned include making digital personal handlers wired to one's glasses and overall faster Cloud data access and utilization.

Of course, the first step will be to make the cloud more distributed and localized, by extending such capabilities to even client devices when appropriate.

Finally, the company is starting a new phase of the program, one where researchers from across the US are invited openly to submit their ideas.