IBM, Sony and Toshiba introduces Cell

In what can be considered the next generation of microprocessors, tech giants IBM along with Sony and Toshiba unveiled details of the Chip they have developed and codenamed Cell. They claim that the processor can provide the performance of a supercomputer and can be used to power anything from a gaming console to normal desktop and business computers.

This chip could soon be competing directly against the current generation of processors powered by Intel and AMD. The designers of this new chip have even claimed that the development from the base level has ensured that the chip can match the future demand of high performance computing which can be as much as 10 times the power provided by todays processors.

Interestingly, the chip will not be providing compatibility with the ancient coding paradigm and hence might not be compliant with old programs and hardware. This would mean that they would be directly competing against the compatibility card played by Intel and Microsoft for today’s computers.

Toshiba are planning to use this processor in their high-end entertainment devices like televisions and big screens. IBM expects to launch it through their workstations in the current year itself. Sony would make a smashing entry with their PlayStation 3 gaming console to be powered by this technology.