Intel Pulls Out of the One Laptop Per Child Project
This recent news that Intel has withdrawn funding and technical help from the One Laptop Per Child (OLPC) project highlights the disconnect between the free enterprise world of computer manufacturing, and the charitable intentions of an organization dedicated to providing basic opportunities in developing countries, Info-Tech Research Group says.
OPLC's portable and inexpensive computer was designed for rugged use in developing countries with innovative features such as powering by using a hand crank. Intel joined the program in July, 2007 following earlier accusations that Intel's own inexpensive laptop, the Classmate, was competing with and undermining the OPLC's XO computer.
"OLPC and Intel were likely out of sync in terms of expectations for the program going forward," said Darin Stahl, senior research team lead, Info-Tech Research Group. "While Intel is a sophisticated and competitive company with the free enterprise goal of making a profit, OLPC is well intended but lacking experience in product manufacturing, production and distribution."
The prior competition between Intel and OLPC created confusion for governments interested in purchasing low-cost computers for children in developing countries, Stahl said. OLPC has struggled to keep the cost of the computer low and to attain necessary high-volume deals with developing countries.
"Those who are purchasing these computers need to ensure their requirements are clearly understood, and that they in turn fully understand the capabilities of low-cost computers to meet those needs," said Stahl. "The departure of Intel from the program will now add another layer of confusion to what was intended to be a simple solution for disadvantaged nations."
