After months of speculation, Intel has finally revealed that it is working on a complete TV service and TV boxes together with partners. The new TV solution will be a combination of TV channels, on-demand and apps. Intel says that it will be unlike anything else that exists today. The development group includes former employees from Apple, Netflix and Google.

Intel to try again in TV
Intel has tried to enter the TV industry before, lately with the first generation of Google TV. That was not a success to say it lightly, but Intel is back for another try. The new bet is a complete TV platform where Intel supplies the chips and hardware for other manufacturers to sell products.


Erik Huggers, Intel (right) reveals that Intel is hard at work at developing an Internet TV service and TV box, picture: Asa Mathat

The goal: To build the best Internet television service ever
The TV service will be a combination of TV channels, on-demand, and TV apps, Intel revealed at the Dive into Media conference. But it will not only work on TV boxes but also on for example an iPad, Intel adds.

Intel’s project is more of a specification set and hardware than a product. Intel wants to offer a solution for other manufacturer to sell – kind of like the Ultrabook specification. It is a sort of “Intel Inside” project where Intel hopes to sign major electronics players.

Intel says that they are working hard to create compelling software that is unlike anything on the market today, including the current Smart TVs. Intel also plans to utilize H.265 (HEVC) compression. H.265 can enable better HD streaming and possibly even 4K streaming. Lastly, Intel plans to integrate a camera that allows the system to give individualized recommendations based on the viewer in front of the TV.

Intel is already testing the new TV service with employees and expects to launch this year in the US. You can see the entire Intel interview here.

- Source: AllthingsD