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July 2008 • Volume 13 Number 7
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Member Profile: Intel
1. What are Intel's main business profile and offerings? Intel is perhaps best known for being the largest semiconductor manufacturer in the industry. However, what might not be as well known is that Intel continues to expand its focus to become more of a “platform” solution provider to the ecosystem. 2. What role does smart card technology play in supporting Intel's business? Smart cards appear to be the “de-facto” container and environment for wide ranging applications requiring security. We want to learn from this segment to determine if and how Intel can extend its platform offerings that can embrace the smart card success in these crucial applications. At this point, I would characterize Intel interest as evaluating what role smart card technology can play in our various lines of business. 3. What trends do you see developing in the market that Intel hopes to capitalize on? There are many. To name a few…online commerce continues to grow at 20% per year yet can benefit from a more secure user authentication experience-though not at the expense of ease of use. Another trend we see is that the PC is becoming ever more influential in guiding offline commerce. Yet another is the explosion of digital ID’s. It is a challenge for all of us -- whether as a consumer or a business -- to keep track of digital IDs. Yet another trend is that mobility and computing/communication continue to converge in such a way that a new credential or identity approach seems to be required. Intel’s perspective is that such trends warrant a fresh approach. As Intel goes forward understanding these and other related trends, perhaps there is something that Intel can support or develop that can bring value to the ecosystem. 4. What obstacles to growth do you see that must be overcome to capitalize on these opportunities? To name just a few, these obstacles include: Credential confusion: Why do I need all the digital ID’s I have? Interfaces: The smart card offers a portable unique platform to hold ones’ credentials. However, it is a daunting challenge to facilitate connectivity from such a device to any platform….USB? Smart card interface? Contactless? WAN? Then when the physical layer is considered, the over-laying security, proprietary payment or access applications, etc., causes a fragmented market. Somehow we have to strike the balance of industry enabling vs. allowing enough room at the table for innovation. 5. What do you see are the key factors driving smart card technology in the market? Credential mobility and security. Potentially contactless if the above described obstacles can be remedied. 6. How do you see your involvement in the Smart Card Alliance helping Intel? Understanding the players, their motivations, what existing work is done and what yet needs to be done.
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This month, Smart Card Talk spoke with Thomas H. Calvert, with Intel. A 25 year veteran in the high tech business, Mr. Calvert is currently heading up the Personal Mobile Commerce venture for the New Business Initiatives group within Intel. Prior to this assignment, Mr. Calvert was an active Equity Investment Manager in Intel's VC arm, Intel Capital. Mr. Calvert helped start the Home Networking Group and also served on the HomePNA Board of Directors for Intel. Other experiences have included operational, engineering, and marketing roles related to new products, as well as directing European business activities based in England. Mr. Calvert holds degrees from both the University of Michigan and Pepperdine University.
