The Atom processor may have disappointed Intel
Instead, Intel is getting much more serious about netbooks and handheld gadgets. The semiconductor titan is buying device software specialist Wind River Systems
Wind River shareholders get a 44% buyout premium compared to last night's closing price. Intel gets a software development package that helps gadget builders make the most of their hardware. Wind River CEO Ken Klein aims to continue selling "leading solutions across multiple hardware architectures and delivering the same world-class support to which our customers have grown accustomed."
Intel has long been a Wind River Partner -- but so have direct Intel competitors in the mobile space such as Texas Instruments
But that's a minor concern. This deal gives Intel the ability to sell a very credible package deal: all the central processors you need, together with the right software to run 'em. This will let gadget builders like Samsung and Hewlett-Packard
This could breathe added life to the stalled growth of Atom sales, and should also extend to Intel's higher-end chips. One-stop shopping is all the rage -- just ask Cisco Systems
Further Foolishness: