Intel tempts ISVs

Intel has upgraded its Early Access Program. The newly dubbed Intel Software Partner Program is now a membership-based program for independent software vendors (ISVs).

All 2,300 current members of the Intel Early Access Program will be transferred across to the Intel Software Partner Program.

Developed back in 2001, the previous program focused on providing technical benefits during the product development stage to its member companies.

Intel’s latest program allows members to develop their products to work directly with Intel’s platforms, as well as with a specific market segment area such as gaming or digital media creation.

Members of the Intel Software Partner Program have access to sales tools, marketing and participation in channel events.

They will also have access to technical resources like application engineering services and developer resource kits.

ISVs also now have the option to choose their level of interaction with Intel and can tailor their program engagement based on their own business objectives.

The Intel Software Partner Program will also be opened up to to any software company developing commercial products or services for Intel technologies, such as Intel Core 2 Duo, Intel Xeon and Intel Itanium processors.

Renee James, corporate vice president and general manager, Intel Software and Solutions Group said ISVs will also have the opportunity to participate in the Intel Channel Marketplace, an online exchange among resellers, distributors and vendors.

Intel has been piloting the marketplace in Russia, Taiwan, Thailand and Ukraine with plans to expand to other locations in the future, she said.