Intel backtracks on Otellini's Windows 8 comments

CHIPMAKER Intel has backtracked on widely reported comments by CEO Paul Otellini regarding Microsoft's Windows 8, claiming they were "unsubstantiated".

Intel CEO Paul Otellini reportedly told employees in internal meetings that Microsoft was shipping Windows 8 before it was ready, reportedly adding that it is fine to ship buggy software as the firm can fix it at a later date. Intel initially did not deny that Otellini made the comments, instead saying it was an internal meeting, the contents of which were not intended to be made public, a tune the firm has now changed.

Intel issued a new statement trying to rubbish the validity of Bloomberg's initial report, claiming it was unsubstantiated. The firm said, "Today Intel Corporation issued a statement in response to unsubstantiated news reports about comments made by Intel CEO Paul Otellini in a meeting with employees."

Following Intel's U-turn the company went on to talk up its relationship with Microsoft and provided an "on-record" quote from Otellini that would make most people gag. The firm chose to highlight Otellini saying, "Windows 8 is one of the best things that ever happened to Intel."

Otellini's choice quote - most probably chosen by his marketing team - doesn't quite jibe with the firm's announcement last month that its third quarter revenues will fall below expectations. Intel's lowered revenue forecast flies in the face of Microsoft releasing Windows 8 to OEMs and system builders, strongly suggesting that Windows 8 will be another Windows Vista. µ