In context: For years, hardware makers have observed the attention and valuation multiples enjoyed by software companies with envy. Employees at hardware companies have also longed for the fancy perks their peers receive at software companies, while their hardware teams are fortunate to even have coffee at work. Software may be eating the world, but does that mean only software companies get foosball tables at work?
Here we go again: Current rumors suggest that Apple might be planning to throttle data and charging speeds on USB-C cables that don't have the MFi badge. The certification is Apple's way of ensuring devices and accessories are safe to use with iPhones. There is no official indication that it will hinder uncertified devices, but the European Commission isn't taking any chances.
Bottom line: Unlike other tech giants like Microsoft and Google, Intel's bottom line is hurting this year. The company saw a $2.8 billion loss in Q1 – the worst in its history and a major hit at a time when it is scrambling to pivot towards an open foundry model and protect its future. CEO Pat Gelsinger assumed a lot of risks with the new strategy and believes it will pay off in spades, but we'll have to wait and see.