Intel is developing a broad family of PC, consumer electronics and mobile platforms and technologies, under the Viiv(TM) concept. Intel promises that the new platform will enrich consumers' enjoyment of digital entertainment, bringing Microsoft's vision for a digital home closer to reality.

Viiv (pronounced to rhyme with five) is a collection of its dual-core microprocessors, chipsets, software and networking capabilities. PCs based on Intel Viiv technology will be easy to use with a remote control, will be powered by a suite of Intel technologies, and surrounded by a number of verified consumer electronics devices, software and online services (including movies, music, photos and games).

Viiv silicon-based systems will come to market in a variety of form factors, from smaller consumer electronic-type designs to more traditional desktop or tower designs, Intel said.

Perhaps in a move to match it with the long-time living room mainstay the television, Intel is integrating consumer electronic features into the platform. All PCs based on Viiv will ship with the Microsoft Windows Media Center Edition operating system and media software that lets consumers interact with their PC in the same way they operate a TV.

Consumers will be able -- after their initial boot-up -- to turn the Viiv-powered PCs on and off quickly by pushing a button. Each Intel Viiv-based PC will also come with surround sound for home theater-quality sound.

With an optional TV tuner card, the same Viiv PC will be able to record, pause and rewind live television and store them on the PC's hard drive, Intel said.

Intel Viiv technology will also include a software. The software will contain a network configuration wizard that can be navigated with the system's remote control, making it easy for consumers to connect many devices including portable media players, DVD players, TV sets and stereos.

Intel Viiv technology also includes an integrated media server "engine" that can reformat various digital content files so they can be viewed on a selection of devices verified by Intel to work with Intel Viiv technology-based systems. Additionally, Intel worked with the PC, CE and content industries to set interoperability specifications so that consumers can easily move a variety of online media from room to room and between various devices in the home network.

The Viiv PCs will also connect easily to online entertainment services, enabling movie and music downloads, as well as access to the latest games.

Intel said PC makers such as Dell Inc. , Hewlett-Packard Co. , Gateway Inc. and others will have the Viiv PCs available in the first quarter of 2006 in various styles, shapes and sizes. Details on pricing weren't immediately available.