The company who heavily criticized “one laptop per child” (OLPC) laptop and called the device “a gadget”, Intel Corp., has joined to initiative to equip children in third world countries with notebooks that cost governments of developing countries just about $100 a unit. Under the agreement, Intel and OLPC will explore collaborations involving technology and educational content. Intel will also join the board of OLPC.

“Intel joins the OLPC board as a world leader in technology, helping reach the world’s children. Collaboration with Intel means that the maximum number of laptops will reach children,” said Nicholas Negroponte, founder of OLPC

Even though the first version of OLPC laptop will still use microprocessor by Advanced Micro Devices, Intel may still contribute a chip for future versions of the device. For example, Intel is developing Tolapai and Silverthorn highly-integrated chips with built-in memory controller and/or graphics cores.

Intel is also working on low-cost laptops under its “classmate PC” program as well as in collaboration with Asustek Computer.

“Joining OLPC is a further example of our commitment to education over the last 20 years and our belief in the role of technology in bringing the opportunities of the 21^st century to children around the world,” said Paul Otellini, chief executive of Intel.

Intel currently invests more than $100 million per year in over 50 countries to promote education, including efforts through the Intel Foundation, and has been developing products for the educational marketplace. Intel’s focus on education for emerging markets is part of the Intel World Ahead program, the company’s comprehensive approach to bring technology to everyone, anywhere in the world.