Intel Corp. on Tuesday confirmed plans to launch its own Internet-based smart TV service that will combine live television, a collection of previously aired programs, video rentals and other services. The company is actively working with the entire TV industry in order to build “the best Internet television service ever”, the chip giant revealed at the D:Dive Into Media conference. But most importantly, Intel’s TV service will be available on mobile gadgets.

"We have been working for (the past) year to set up Intel media, a new group focused on developing an Internet platform. It is not a value play, it is a quality play where we will create a superior experience for the end user," said Erik Huggers, vice president and general manager of Intel Media, reports Reuters news-agency.

The base of Intel’s smart Internet TV service will be a set-top-box powered by a specially-designed Intel system-on-chip that will be equipped with a camera to recognize the users and provide them relevant programs or services. The STB will provide live television, a collection of programs and TV-shows aired in the past, video rental service as well as other services. All-in-all, Intel wants to create an all-in-one solution that will provide convenience, but will not necessarily offer ways to cut-down TV bills. The new STB and service will not carry Intel brand-name.

"What consumers want is choice, control, and convenience. If bundles are bundled right, there's real value in that. I do not believe the industry is ready for pure a la carte,” said Mr. Huggers, reports Cnet News web-site.

^{Samsung's SmartHub, latest smart TV software}

At first glance, Intel’s TV service is nothing special as it will not introduce anything that will clearly differentiate it from the established market players. Quite naturally, the virtual TV operator will also not offer exclusive programs or TV-shows, something that Microsoft Corp. plans to unveil for its Xbox Live TV service in future. However, a major advantage of the Intel’s smart TV service will be its compatibility with mobile devices.

Erik Huggers reportedly revealed that Intel's new Internet-based TV service also will be available on mobile devices, but declined to say what devices will initially work with Intel's TV service.

"I absolutely and completely believe in the world of multiplatform ... anytime, anyplace, anywhere. Consumers and audiences expect that nowadays. Yes, we will make services available on other sockets, on other devices, and on other products just like at the BBC. But to get from nothing to 650 devices at the BBC literally took four years. That doesn't happen overnight, but yeah, you bet, that's completely part of the strategy," said Mr. Huggers.

Tags: Intel, HDTV, Apple, Microsoft, Google, Google TV, Apple TV