Intel moves Android to Atom

April 14, 2010 | 13:32

Tags: #android #atom #atom-smartphone #intel-atom #intel-smartphone #x86 #x86-smartphone

Companies: #arm #intel

Intel has announced that it has successfully modified Google's Android operating system for use on its Atom range of x86 processors.

While Google's Linux-based OS has been getting increasing interest of late, it has previously only been available for ARM architecture processors - which is fine for the smartphone world, but slightly restrictive for those who plan devices which deviate from the standard use of the pretty ubiquitous ARM processor.

Intel, obviously, has a vested interest in encouraging as many OEMs as possible to make the move to using its processors - and in this case it's taken the effort to ensure that those hoping to release an Android-based smartphone in the future will be given the option of either ARM or x86 architecture for their next device.

Interestingly, the move isn't part of the increasing use of Android on netbooks - often termed 'smartbooks' to distinguish the streamlined and cut-down interface offered by a platform originally designed for installation on a 'phone - but rather forms Intel's arguments for the use of its Atom processor range in smartphone handsets.

InfoWorld quotes Intel general manager Renee James - speaking to press at the Intel Development Forum in Beijing - as stating that the project is part of Intel's plan to "enable all OSes for Atom 'phones."

Do you believe that the Atom processor - often derided for its poor performance - could find a comfortable home in the smartphone sector, or are they just too power hungry compared to the equivalent ARM chips? Share your thoughts over in the forums.
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