Intel cancels 20-year IDF event as the chip manufacturer moves into new areas

Bringing a 20-year tradition to an abrupt end, Intel has decided its time to reinvent itself. Killing off its annual Intel Developers Forum (IDF) after two decades, the company said it would now focus on its ‘more specified’ events as it delves into new areas moving forwards.

And although cancelling the IDF is a big move in itself, it is what it reflects about the company that is perhaps more interesting. By cancelling its flagship event, Intel – is telling us – that it is no longer just a mega-PC chip manufacturer. While PC processors are still undoubtedly integral to the firm’s future success, Intel is keen to promote the fact that it has developed into other areas.

A spokesman for Intel said: “Intel has evolved its event portfolio and decided to retire the IDF programme moving forward. Thank you for nearly 20 great years with the Intel Developer Forum. Intel has a number of resources available on intel.com, including a resource and design centre with documentation, software, and tools for designers, engineers, and developers. As always, our customers, partners, and developers should reach out to their Intel representative with questions.”

The spokesman went on to highlight developments in autonomous vehicles and the introduction of 5G as examples of where Intel is progressing. The firm is also integral to the universal growth of virtual reality and looks set to spearhead the VR revolution. Although unconfirmed, it looks likely that each of these areas will be given its own annual forum to showcase Intel’s latest developments. 

Instead of one general event showcases everything that is going on within the firm (the IDF), Intel has hinted at more events, each with a specific focus or agenda. Although no specific dates, or event titles, have been revealed (or perhaps decided upon), a list of upcoming events is expected to be announced at some point this summer.