Intel has introduced its new Core Series 2 processors targeted at industrial applications during the Embedded World conference in Nuremberg. This launch highlights a significant shift towards enhancing processing capabilities directly at machines and sensors, moving away from dependence on cloud computing. Applications for the new processors include factories, robotics, and patient monitoring systems, emphasizing the need for deterministic performance with up to 12 performance cores per chip.
Chief Executive Lip-Bu Tan is under pressure to demonstrate growth beyond Intel's established AI data-center market. Recent projections for the first quarter indicated revenues between $11.7 billion and $12.7 billion, with adjusted earnings anticipated to be near break-even, disappointing analysts. Furthermore, Intel has acknowledged challenges in meeting demand for server CPUs that typically complement Nvidia's AI chips.
In addition to the processors, Intel previewed its Health & Life Sciences Edge AI suite, aimed at developing technologies for healthcare, including heart rhythm analysis and touch-free vital sign monitoring. As part of a "two-chip story," the Core Series 2 is designed for control tasks, while the Core Ultra Series 3 will manage AI inference operations. Following the announcement, Intel’s stock rose by 2.6%, closing at $46.78.