Intel waiting for Android 4.0 before releasing its x86 phone?

Intel has been making smartphone, tablet and PC processors for the longest time and it seems that it is ready to unveil its first smartphone – the x86. But, although the phone is ready, Intel seems to have hit a glitch – it is still waiting for Google to make its new OS – the Ice Cream Sandwich available for the x86.

Suzy Greenberg, an Intel spokeswoman, told computerworld, "Ice Cream Sandwich includes OS optimization for x86, so Intel architecture-based devices can support it,".

Intel, it seems, is also waiting for an Android update to unveil smartphones and tablets equipped with its processors.

Opting for Android might have been a difficult decision for Intel, as until now, Android has only favored devices with competitor ARM’s chipsets such as Nvidia, Qualcomm and Samsung. 

Intel had concentrated on making chipsets for PC’s and Laptops and seems to have faded away when it comes to devices such as smartphones and tablets.

Intel’s venture was delayed by a year as it had opted for MeeGo OS, which was pulled out afterwards. An Intel-Android venture seems interesting, but the chipset maker has woken up late.

Intel will also have to compete in an ever-expanding market that has manufacturers like Samsung and HTC lining up for Android.

One of the reasons everybody is enthralled about the Ice Cream Sandwich OS is Smartphone and processor makers are excited about Android 4.0 because it could reduce the fragmentation of the OS. The OS brings consistency between the contrasting Android versions available for tablets and smartphones.

Intel, we will say, is making the right bet regarding its upcoming smartphone. Intel has all the technology in place for providing the world with a high-end smartphone. But, releasing a phone without the latest update would be hara-kiri.

We have already seen phones with great hardware but outdated software fail in the market. One of the recent ones was the Optimus 3D, which had amazing hardware but ran on Android 2.2 – Froyo, which became a real downgrade for the phone.