AMD will attempt to block Intel anti-Via moves

Reliable sources close to AMD's plans in Taiwan have told The Register that the company is making representations to the US International Trade Commission (ITC) to stop a move by Intel to ban Via imports into the country. Early last week, Intel, which is already engaged in fierce legal action against Via over alleged patent infringements, sent a letter to the ITC asking the regulatory body to block the Taiwanese firm from importing its chipsets into the USA. But now, we understand, AMD has stepped into the dispute and has made its own representations to the ITC, because its future roadmap will, in part, depend upon Via and other chipsets. As well as further extensive chipset support from Via, we understand that AMD will produce a dual Athlon during the course of this year, likely to be at the beginning of Q3, and has garnered support from other Taiwanese firms including UMC, SiS and ALi. AMD is concerned that these future plans may be compromised if the ITC accedes to Intel's complaint and blocks Via imports. ® See also Compaq could be affected by Intel Via action Intel extends Via legal action