Intel Outlines Tech Predictions for 2011

No rest for the weary, right? You can apply that saying to Intel, the world's largest chip maker, who upon closing out 2010 is eager to ring in the new year. And who can blame them? With Sandy Bridge just around the corner, 2011 could shape up to be Intel's busiest year yet.

Intel spent much of 2010 milking its Atom processor line, and you can bet Sandy Bridge will dominate Intel's rhetoric in early 2011. But what else does the No. 1 chip maker have in store? For starters, look for Intel to target mobile and cloud security, the result of a $7.68 billion acquisition of McAfee.


In the company's annual "Year in Review" fact sheet (PDF), Intel puts a lot of focus on mobile and wireless technology, stating "Intel continues its commitment to and investments in WiMAX, the next-generation 4G wireless broadband technology." Intel also pointed to its Wireless Display capability on select Intel processor, as well as its acquisition of Infineon's Wireless Solutions back in August.

So what's it all mean? In addition to the deluge of Sandy Bridge coverage that's sure to kick off 2011, look for Intel to push several wireless technology solutions as the year goes on. We also suspect Intel will try to further position its popular Atom platform as a viable candidate for the emerging tablet market.