Intel toys with the idea of Internet-based TV service

The world's top chipmaker, Intel Corp. has seemingly got its sights set somewhere else, since a while now. The company, reportedly has been toying with the idea of developing an Internet-based TV service, soon for users based in the United States, cites a Wall Street Journal report. If reports are to be believed, then Intel has been quite religiously taking up its plans with media companies. Elaborating further, the report stated that Intel plans on introducing, what is increasingly being referred to as a "virtual cable operator", which would provide users with U.S TV channels, throughout the country over the Internet, thereby providing a package, quite like the subscriptions offered by cable and satellite TV operators. That being said, Intel wouldn't provide Internet access, which users would have to avail to separately. In October, Intel discontinued making chips for digital "smart" TVs, but has since continued  making chips for set-top boxes.

Intel to get into Internet-based TV service

Detailing a bit more on what U.S consumers can expect from Intel, the report states that the Internet-based TV service, while using Intel technology, would also use the company's name in some cases. Intel, reportedly has also added that it plans on making its own set-top box to aid the TV service and has also demonstrated an interface allowing users to browse through programs in.

Although Intel perceives roadblocks, like scarce bandwidth and expensive TV programming, it hopes to get its Internet-based TV service up and running by the end of this current year. Reports have also been suggesting that Intel has been seeking rate cards, in a couple of instances to gauge the cost of particular channels or types of on-demand programs as part of the subscription. However, there hasn't been any programming deal that has come through, yet, so to speak. The report adds that, "The new effort would mark a big shift for Intel Chief Executive Paul Otellini, who has made clear his determination to move the company beyond the computer industry. Those efforts so far have include a series of TV-related businesses that have largely failed to gain much traction."