Intel has introduced a new AI chip that the company says will bring low-power capabilities to laptop computers. The Intel Visual Sensing Controller, code-named “Clover Falls” is what Intel calls a “companion chip” designed to work with the Intel Core processor in a notebook rather than replace it.
Among other things, it could allow laptops to detect when a user is in front of the display or not and automatically adjust display brightness accordingly.
Intel suggests the new Clover Falls module will show up in commercial PCs that meet the company’s Intel EVO Platform specifications soon… I suspect we’ll hear more about those products when the Consumer Electronics Show begins in January.
The Intel EVO platform is basically Intel’s initiative to work with laptop makers to ensure that certified devices meet certain experience criteria such as long battery life, instant resume from sleep, and fast connectivity.
PC makers have a choice of components that they can use to meet those specifications (just about the only requirement is that they use 11th-gen Intel Core chips… Intel’s not going to certify an AMD-powered laptop, even if it does meet the requirements). But the Clover Falls Module would be one more tool that could be used for EVO-certified notebooks.
Intel notes that it’s also worked with third-party hardware companies on components for Intel EVO devices, for example working “with key supplies and customers to bring the 1-watt [display] panel to market two years ago by aggregating demand.” Now three quarters of Intel EVO-certified laptops use this low-power display panel.
Absolutely not interested in owning any devices with this.
How long until Intel offers APIs for software to utilize this, and then browsers start using it? How long until websites start adjusting timing and placement of advertisements based on my apparent attention.
How long until user tracking software like Google Analytics, and Facebook Pixel start using it to determine body language and engagement based on web content, and start building more detailed meta data about my interests, political affiliations, reading ability, and sexuality. How long until someone sells that data?
How long until my employer buys software that measures the percentage of the day that I’m looking at my screen?
Even if the hardware isn’t accessible to applications, I’m still categorically opposed to the technology.
Because I really wanted my laptop’s camera to not only always be on, but passing judgement (however simple) on me too. With future developments, it can maybe even take it’s judgements and apply them to replacing not just the background of my video calls, but also my face and voice, with ones that present the illusion of a flawless life with none of hollywood’s current list of undesirable genetic/socioeconomic predispositions!
Yeah, nah. Dedicated Linux laptops keep looking more attractive as time goes on.
No thanks. Seems these new AI features benefit someone else than the device owner.