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Intel wants to significantly advance the spread of AI software for Windows PCs – even more so if it is optimized for its own Core Ultra processors. To this end, the company launched the “AI PC Acceleration Program” in October 2023. Intel is now expanding this in two directions.
Intel wants to work with more PC and other device manufacturers. So far there have been collaborations with over 100 of the world’s largest manufacturers; Now small companies should also be included in the partner program. Among other things, Intel engineers help with hardware designs, for example to make motherboards and processors run more efficiently.
The blog states: “The inclusion of Independent Hardware Vendors (IHVs) in the AI PC Acceleration Program provides IHVs the opportunity to prepare, optimize and enable their hardware for Intel AI PCs. Qualified partners gain access to Intel’s Open Labs, where They receive technical support and co-engineering during the development phase of their hardware solutions and platforms. In addition, as part of this program, Intel provides reference hardware so that qualified IHV partners can test and optimize their technology so that at the time the market launch runs as efficiently as possible.”
When it comes to potential partnerships, the only relevant thing for Intel is that the systems have a Core Ultra processor with an AI unit – this is how the company defines an “AI PC”. Microsoft, on the other hand, also requires a keyboard with a Copilot key in order to call a system “AI PC”.
Externally, Intel adopts Microsoft’s definition of an “AI PC” with a copilot button. However, this is not necessary for the AI partner program.
(Image: Intel)
Software funding
Aside from the hardware, the new funding branch AI PC Developer Program is being created to develop software tools that use AI algorithms. “It provides access to tools, workflows, AI implementation frameworks and developer kits that include the latest Intel hardware with the Core Ultra processor.”
Intel wants to offer a dev kit in the form of a mini PC, which Asus is contributing.
(Image: Intel)
This dev kit will be available to anyone interested in the future. After taking over Intel’s NUC division, Asus is contributing the hardware in the form of a mini PC with a Meteor Lake processor. Intel then loads tools, example code and instructional videos onto the computers. Aside from the Windows 11 installation, the entire software stack should be open source. Intel plans to add Linux support later.
Intel and Asus are currently finalizing the prices and logistics plans. The dev kit should be available in the summer.
(mma)