Wednesday 8 January 2014

CES: Intel drops McAfee brand and makes Android and iOS security apps free

Intel will drop its McAfee Security brand in the coming year as it looks to push through its own Intel Security products. Speaking at CES, Intel chief executive Brian Krzanich announced that his company would also be offering McAfee mobile security products free of charge.
While McAfee will continue to operate as a wholly owned subsidiary of Intel, it will be renamed Intel Security, ending the company's connection to controversial founder John McAfee. Speaking to the BBC, McAfee claimed he was "elated" that Intel had chosen to remove his name from the company.
"I am now everlastingly grateful to Intel for freeing me from this terrible association with the worst software on the planet," he said. "These are not my words, but the words of millions of irate users. My elation at Intel's decision is beyond words."
Despite McAfee's glee, Intel confirmed that the iconic "red shield" would remain part of the Intel Security logo.
Apple devices including the iPad and iPhone, as well as all Android smartphones and tablets will have access to McAfee's mobile security apps for free. Perhaps more importantly for businesses, Android devices running on Intel chips will soon have access to new Intel Device Protection technology. The company said this move was intended to make Android a more viable and secure option for firms implementing BYOD policies.
Krzanich said: "The complexity of keeping digital identities safe grows as mobile applications and devices become a more important part of our daily lives. Intel's intent is to intensify our efforts dedicated to making the digital world more secure, and staying ahead of threats to private information on mobile and wearable devices."
While Intel chips are not often found inside Android devices, there are an increasing number of hybrid Windows 8/Android tablets marketed for businesses that contain Intel chips. For particularly security-conscious IT managers, Intel Device Security for Android will present a significant step forward in security.

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