9.
AMD acquired (not formally, the deal is 100% done) for chipsets so they could build "platforms" - AKA the CPU/NB/SB/IGP so they could compete with Intel. ATI's side business of middle- and higher-end GPU's is a nice side business in that it generates lots of profits. But AMD wants ATI so they can go after the corporate buy of laptops/desktops/servers with complete platformization. That has been Intel's trump card for 20+ years - they make all the key ingredients of a PC/Server (minus RAM and drives). This vertical integration is the KEY. Nothing else matters. AMD and Intel win or lose at the end of the day based on sales to corporate America. Not gamers.
My bet is Intel cozies up to Nvidia a bit for some flashy "mindshare" type products, but at the end of the day, they have their GMA, NB, SB, Audio, and processors - they don't need anyone else.
And the 60% share of video that Intel has is perfectly adequate for corporate America who stares at powerpoints and excel all day.
[Posted by: Mark1 | Date: 10/06/06 10:30:55 AM]