14 DAY TRIAL // We suppose it was only a matter of time before personal computers became personal all-in-one computer chips. We just didn't think the leap from laptop to SD-card-sized system would skip all the steps in between.
Then again, those “in-between steps” are tablets, smartphones and hand-sized gadgets, and since ARM has a firm hold on most of those, Intel must have figured it had a better chance if it jumped all the way in one go.
Besides, this will let it score points on the wearable computing gadgets, like fitness tracking wrist bands, electronic clothing, toys with medical and surveillance applications, etc.
The new computer-on-a-chip is called Edison. Intel says it is based on the same tech as normal PCs, only compacted.
The 22 nm transistor technology was used for the processor itself, which is a dual-core Quark CPU (central processing unit).
The Santa Clara, California-based chip giant also made sure that both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth were present and accounted for.
As we have implied above, Intel CEO Brian Krzanich intends for the Edison miniature computer to be used to build the next generation of connected devices and wearable gadgets.
We have to say that CES 2014, the Consumer Electronics Show taking place in Las Vegas, Nevada, is a very opportune moment.
Not just because it is a well-attended launching pad for all sorts of consumer devices, but because consumer awareness and interest is ideal: the public is optimistic about the idea of wearable devices, but doesn't have any available to buy.
What's more, it has already been proven that high-tech clothes can be made. We've already seen the Call Me Gloves (so you can talk to the hand literally) and we know almost for sure that Bluetooth watches, bracelets, gloves and hats are in the works and will debut this year.
On that note, the Edison is made for developers and while it hasn't shipped much, Intel did have some proof-of-concept stuff on hand, the “Nursery 2.0” as he the company called it: a toy frog that reports an infant's vitals to a parent's LED coffee cup, a milk warmer that heats when the frog (or other item) hears the baby cry, etc.
The only catch here is that if you are a developer, you'll have to wait until the middle of 2014 to get the Edison. By then, the app store dedicated just to it will be up and running as well.