In addition to the second generation of Core processors and the next-generation Xeon architecture announced yesterday, Intel has introduced a pair of new Atom processors and announced the full launch of an application store for Atom devices.
The chipmaker launched the Atom E600 chip, codenamed Tunnel Creek, for embedded devices such as in car entertainment, Internet phones, and smart grid devices. It also outlined a future Atom CE4200 processor, codenamed Groveland, for integrating Internet functions into TV sets. The upcoming chip is an evolution of the CE4100, so it is still based on the 45nm Atom architecture. Additionally, it will be capable of H.264 video encoding and will have integrated power management capabilities that automatically turn off parts of the chip when not in use. Four partners have been announced: Samsung, ADB, Sagemcom, and Technicolor.
The Intel AppUp store, an app development and distribution platform for the Atom architecture, launched today. Intel isn't satisfied putting its chips into every imaginable device and is a little worried about developers coding to specific operating systems rather than the underlying microprocessor. Partnering with Adobe, Intel also announced plans to offer the Adobe Air platform to developers creating applications for the store. The store went into a public beta in January and so far has around 450,000 users and 23,000 program members.
Available apps are optimized for a netbook's mobility and screen size, come in both free and paid flavors, and fall into categories such as entertainment, social networking, gaming, and productivity. On top of that, Intel AppUp has a "try before you buy" option to encourage trying apps you otherwise wouldn't have.
The store will be pre-installed on netbooks sold by US retailer Best Buy, the UK's Dixons, and India's Croma002E. Asus is also on board; the company plans to ship its version of the Intel AppUp center, dubbed the Asus app store, on netbooks shipping as of October.