Intel to focus on apps, mobile in 2012, VP says

In an interview with news provider Investor's Business Daily, Intel® senior vice president Renee James claims that the chip manufacturer has several projects in the pipeline for 2012, but the company's main focus will be on developing technology for mobile devices.

"Our focus is on applications that include new experiences around mobile, media and things like power management, as we build out a new capability in Ultrabooks, tablets and phones," James says.

In 2011, Intel set up the Intel Capital AppUp Developer Fund, a $100 million investment aimed at developing software applications for its new chip architectures, many of which revolve around mobile technology. The company also set aside $300 million for Ultrabook™ technology. The Ultrabook Fund, James says, is targeted toward developing hardware for the devices, such as long-lasting batteries and touchscreens.

Next year is expected to be a transitional one in many areas of the technology industry. The rise of Ultrabooks could have an especially significant impact, as research firm IHS iSuppli forecasts the device to account for 13 percent of all notebook sales next year, up from just 2 percent in 2011.