CES 2014: Intel Security to replace McAfee brand name
Intel distances itself from controversial founder John McAfee, replaces McAfee brand name with Intel Security.
At the CES 2014, Intel announced phasing out the McAfee brand name to make way for a simpler “Intel Security”. The move is believed to be an attempt to distancing itself from its founder John McAfee who started the company nearly 20 years ago.
The announcement was made by Intel CEO Brian Krzanich at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2014 in Las Vegas. He stated, “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.”
He added that McAfee will continue to operate as a wholly-owned subsidiary of Intel, with employees working side-by-side Intel employees. The mission statement will remain the same: “Intel aims to provide ubiquitous security and identity protection for individuals and businesses on all computing devices, and lead the industry by enabling a safe digital experience for every person on Earth.”
McAfee was purchased by Intel in 2010 for $7.68 billion. The company paid a 60 percent premium for the anti virus software maker at $48 a share for McAfee. Intel announced that the company will retain McAfee’s iconic red shield symbol and added the symbol represents “the core values of security and protection.”
As part of the transition, some parts of McAfee’s mobile offerings will be made available at no cost for iPhone, Android and iPad. The company expects the transition to complete in approximately an year but added that more details will be released in the coming months.