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Stemcell computing on the way - Zii
Creative Labs, a company that is always on the edge of technology when it comes to multimedia products, has launched a teaser about Zii, claiming that Stemcell computing (whatever it might mean) is going to change everything as we know it (check image below). Whatever it is, you might want to register for further news by going on www.zii.com or www.creative.com. Let's hope it is really some sort of revolutionary new technology, not just a marketing ploy to launch a new gaming console (does it remind you of any console in particular?).
After having given the issue it's fair share of thinking, and trying to dig up what all this could be about, I leave the console option open, however I am also considering the that the Zii could well be an add-on card based on the Cell processor - a branch (stem) of the Cell processor - therefore - Stemcell. The IBM PowerXCell 8i processor (or a similar CPU, in single or multi-unit configuration) will allow super-computing power to the normal desktop PC (and who knows... maybe even a notebook). This would work somewhat like the nVIDIA Tesla add-on cards/systems. The system could allow for new unexplored territory for the standard computing, typically - enhanced decoding for multi video streams in HD for HD TV reception (picture in picture split screen... etc. - will marry well with that hi-def TV you just got for Christmas). It would probably also allow high quality video stream upscaling (for DVD and Youtube/internet videos) for the PC. It could also boost gaming performace, both where it comes to graphics and also in sound. Probably there would be different models, targeted at different audiences/market segments, like it has always been with many other Creative products.
It could appear as different devices/add-ons, typically:
- A PCI-e add-on card for desktop PCs
- A USB add-on for notebooks/PCs
- A totally dedicated HTPC
- A gaming console???
In the meantime, we welcome your comments on what you think this new product is going to be.
- I read that the zii is a new processor from creative labs, that will incorporate the features you mentioned... or close to them. you can find more at www.creativezii.com.
- I have also read that the Zii is a new processor, apparently Creative's largest investment to date. However it will take care of video features too... so differenciating it from the Audigy line.
On the sideline... I find it a bit pathethic that they named it Zii... I mean... are they trying to piggyback the Wii bandwagon? In any case... let's hope that the Stemcell processing technology they are flaunting about is really something different... cause the way I see it... there is nothing out of this world happenning. - I just received an e-mail from Creative... giving a little more insight about the Zii. Official launch is scheduled for CES on the 9th January. I'll keep you posted of any developments. Anyhow, here's what the mail said:
Everything you know is about to change.
Drawing our inspiration from the intelligence of Mother Nature – who through over a billion years of evolution has designed the basic building block of life: the stem cell – we have created a stem cell-like silicon that is able to grow and multiply into different solutions and ecosystems.
With an investment that spans over 10 years, over a billion dollars and over 10,000 man-years, the world is poised to experience a breakthrough that will better lives beyond our imagination.
Even in the midst of these turbulent times, you will discover incredible recession-friendly business opportunities that enable you to thrive and prosper.
- As you have probably read on www.zii.com (if you haven't been there... go, it's worthwhile), the Zii is a new type of processor that can has a very efficient way of running, is improved for multimedia applications, and makes multi-processor upscaling a joke. And, by the way... Zii is the direct evolution of the once top player in graphics - 3D Labs.
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