The convergence of computers, consumer electronics and communications (3C) is likely to receive a boost from the launch of the computing platform Viiv by the world's largest microprocessor maker Intel.

 

Intel launched the new technology with the support of more than 60 companies to target home entertainment with Intel's dual core processors, chipsets and network connections.

 

The Viiv technology provides traditional functions, like computing, playing movies, or playing games, and makes it easier to access digital media on PCs, laptops and hand-held devices.

 

Chinese firms that collaborated with Intel include Shanghai Media Group, Shanda Interactive Entertainment and Chinese Internet portal Sohu.com.

 

With the new technology, users can record programs using a remote control, similar to with a TV set, using computers.

 

"This is a change from the existing passive media to an active media on the Internet," according to Sean Maloney, executive vice-president of the US giant, speaking yesterday in Beijing.

 

The 3C convergence has been an ambition for many of the world's biggest information technology firms.

 

Many international and domestic giants, such as Microsoft, Philips, Lenovo, Shanda and TCL, are proponents of that trend and want to expand into new areas and try to lead future technological developments.

 

The software giant Microsoft launched its Media Centre Edition in 2003, trying to extend its dominance in the computer business to home appliances. It wants its operating system to become the centre of home entertainment.

 

But Media Centre computers did not sell as well as expected due to the immature market environment and their high price.

 

"We will not give up the goal (of becoming the centre of home entertainment)," said Maloney.

 

This time, it seems the environment is favorable for Intel. More than 20 computer makers have already adopted the Viiv platform, including leading Chinese computer makers Lenovo and Tsinghua Tongfang, and home appliance giants Haier, TCL and Changhong.

 

Content providers, such as top Chinese online game provider Shanda, Shanghai Media Group and Sohu, have also endorsed the Viiv platform.

 

The launch of Viiv also shows Intel's desire for more success after its first platform Centrino.

 

The Centrino platform, which is used for notebook computers and features wireless Internet connections and low power consumption, was launched in 2003 and became the most popular notebook computer processor in China.

 

(China Daily January 10, 2006)