Intel announced that it plans to roll out $50 million in assistance to improve the response to the novel coronavirus. Intel hopes to help address the pandemic by accelerating access to technology used by doctors to diagnose and treat the illness and speeding research into potential vaccines. It is also aiming to improve access to remote learning tools to students who are underserved.
The Silicon Valley company said it intends to offer funding to customers and partners using artificial intelligence and high-performance computing to fuel the development of vaccines. Intel also plans to supply parts to manufacturers scaling up production of medical devices used to diagnose and treat the illness. It is also looking to form partnerships with others in the technology industry to boost the global capacity and capability for fighting the virus.
The Santa Clara, California-based company also plans to donate personal computers and other tools for remote learning to underserved students affected by lockdown measures. The funding follows its announcement of $10 million to help combat the virus, bringing its total investment in the outbreak to more than $60 million. That includes 1 million pairs of gloves, masks and other protective gear for doctors and healthcare workers who need it.
Intel, the world's largest vendor of chips used in personal computers and data centers, alerted customers last month that it has maintained production while safeguarding the health and safety of its employees. Robert Swan, Intel's chief executive officer, said it has been business as usual for its global production and factory operations even as the lethal virus leads to shutdowns in the United States and tears through the global economy.
Separately, Intel said it would grant access to parts of its vast intellectual property portfolio, one of the world's largest, free of charge for scientists and researchers evaluating the virus.