Viiv was a platform initiative from Intel similar to Intel's Centrino and vPro. Initially, it was a collection of computer technologies with a particular combination of Intel ingredients to support a "media PC" concept. Intel also provided the Media Server as the core software stack on the PC to support "media" distribution through the home.
Marketing
Until 2007, Viiv was Intel's attempt to become the center of electronic-based home entertainment. Intel was repeating the marketing model for the very successful Centrino platform, which was their first branded platform. The Intel Viiv brand has been "de-emphasized" and comes after the CPU branding, similar to that of "Core 2 with Viiv inside", putting more focus on the CPU. There will be no additional releases beyond 1.7.1 of the media server product.
Release history
The platform was originally codenamed East Fork and received some press coverage under this name.
Viiv 1.7 has an improved user interface, enhanced media features, simplified network map with ability to edit device settings and resolved issues. There will be no more versions of Viiv Mediserver product, as development has moved from focusing on media products to focus on delivery of Intel Core 2 processors in 2008. Intel does not plan to update Viiv software for Windows Vista SP1 or Windows 7.
Requirements
As of 2009, to be certified as a Viiv-technology based, PCs must feature one of the following dual-core or quad-core processors.
On the entertainment front, AMD is attempting to directly compete with Viiv through AMD LIVE! and AMD Vision. AMD LIVE! is focused on the Athlon 64 X2 CPU, Windows Media Center Edition and a number of partners in the media and entertainment industry. AMD has not announced any compatible subscription services for films or games. Further confusion to both Intel's Viiv and even more to AMD's LIVE! offering is the launch of Windows Live as a direct competitor to Google mail, maps, search and other offerings.
Digital rights management
The Viiv media platform included components that may be used by content owners to implement more tamper resistant DRM systems using features present in Intel's processor, the Core 2 Duo. Although currently the Trusted Platform Module chip is being included in many new laptops and desktops, Viiv does not currently depend on it. The inclusion of TPM in future versions of Viiv is yet to be confirmed. Currently, DRM systems work on Intel Viiv technology-based PCs just like they do any other electronic device.
