Intel has announced a number of new chips, including the fifth generation Intel Core "Broadwell" and the fourth generation Intel Core "Devil's Canyon." The company also presented its new Ready Mode Technology and demonstrated a portable All-in-One computer. The announcements are all part Intel's claim that it is "reinventing the desktop."
Intel used the Game Developers Conference in San Francisco to lift the lid on plans to integrate Iris Pro graphics with desktop versions of the upcoming fifth generation Intel Core "Broadwell" processor family. Iris technology is aimed at providing high-quality graphics for gamers and will mean users do not need an additional graphics card.
An unlocked fourth generation Core processor, called "Devil's Canyon," will roll-out in mid-2014. Intel says it will provide, "significant enhancements to performance and overclocking capabilities." In addition, an 8-core, 16-thread Core processor Extreme Edition, providing high performance and support for the DDR4 memory standard, will be made available in the second half of the year.
Intel will release a 20th anniversary edition of its Pentium processor that will allow users to increase the core and memory frequencies independently from the rest of the system.
As well as chip news, Intel announced its new Ready Mode Technology that will allow computers to perform tasks while in stand-by mode, and be prepared to instantly respond to user interaction, such as voice control.
Intel also used an All-in-One (AIO) reference design to demonstrate some of its new tech. For users who need the convenience of a tablet with the power of a desktop computer, all-in-ones provide a potential solution. All-in-Ones fill another niche in an ever-growing pantheon of devices that includes desktops, laptops, notebooks, netbooks, smartphones, tablets and phablets.
Intel's Black Brook AIO has a thin and light design aimed at providing easy portability around the home. Indeed, its introductory video focuses very much on this sort of use. Essentially, Intel is suggesting that, for individuals or families that have tablets but only use them at home, a more powerful device with a much bigger screen would be an alternative.
The device has a built-in battery, allowing users to move around and use it unplugged, and up to a 27 in display. It features an Intel's RealSense 3D camera technology with depth sensing, which gives the potential for gestural control and 3D scanning. Intel claims the technology provides a more immersive experience.
In addition, the Black Brook features built-in 3D graphics, a quad microphone array, premium audio, a full HD display and 10-point multi-touch functionality, allowing multiple users to play games on the device at the same time.
The video below provides an introduction to the Black Brook.
Source: Intel
