Intel spokespersons said the Arc graphics division is not working to limit crypto mining on its upcoming first line of full-fledged gaming graphics cards.
The statement was issued by Raja Koduri and Roger Chandler, both captains of the fledgling Intel Arc team. In conversation with Gadgets 360 the gentlemen gave more details about the first series of Arc video cards, under the Alchemist code name.
The Indian broadcaster asked about possible restrictions on crypto farmers, as for example Nvidia introduced crypto measures at the beginning of this year. Chandler took the lead in this, claiming that “[crypto-mining] is not a priority for Intel”.
“In terms of software limitations, we don’t design the products and features to specifically [crypto-]to attract miners. As for specifically excluding this target audience, the video cards are appearing on the market and people are just able to purchase the products.”
The interview also revealed other details about the Alchemist generation of Intel Arc. For example, Koduri now speaks decisively about becoming “the third player”, next to Nvidia and AMD. A constant shortage of powerful video cards gives Intel a boost:
“I’m always careful when demand is high and the market is tough — we can always use more inventory. That’s why I don’t claim we have enough inventory for the massive demand, but I think all of our competitors say the same thing,” said Koduri.
Chandler also said something about the actual design of the Intel Arc video cards. A concrete example has not yet emerged, but everything seems to indicate that partner manufacturers now have their own designs ready.
“We offer our partners designs to overcome any friction so that they can really differentiate themselves with our product line. Whether that looks in line with what’s currently circulating on the market, we’re not going to talk about that in detail.”
Intel’s own design — the so-called ‘reference design’ — was not discussed. Last week, however, a set of unofficial renders of the potential design appeared, based on previous rumors and leaks from Intel itself.
For now, there is also no official release period for Intel’s video cards for gamers and creators; the expectation still predicts an appearance around early 2022.
Source: Gadgets 360
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