Intel to offer Internet TV, set-top box

• Tweet

SANTA CLARA, Calif., Feb. 12 (UPI) -- Intel has confirmed it will introduce a streaming Internet-based television service this year and is creating a set-top box for it.

Erik Huggers, head of Intel Media, told AllThingsD Intel would offer the hardware and services directly to consumers.

"For the first time, we will deliver ... a new consumer-electronics product that people will buy from Intel through a new brand," he said.

While Huggers chose not to divulge the service's name or its programming partners, he said the service would offer live TV, on-demand programming and other offerings, CNET reported Tuesday.

Users won't be able to pick and choose individual channels but will likely have to subscribe to bundles or tiers offered by Intel, similar to what cable TV offers, CNET said.

"What consumers want is choice, control, and convenience," Huggers said. "If bundles are bundled right, there's real value in that ... I don't believe the industry is ready for pure a la carte."

"Ultimately we think there's an all-in-one solution."