Further expanding its horizons beyond the microprocessor, Intel on Wednesday disclosed its plans to sell Linux-powered Web appliance products.

The chipmaker will provide three major components -- appliance management capabilities, services package building blocks, and a family of Intel-branded Web appliances designed for accessing the Internet -- to telecom operators and service providers.

The non-PC Web appliances that run Linux instead of Microsoft Windows can make phone calls, surf the Internet and send and receive E-mail. Intel said that the first such product will be available in mid-2000.

Intel also said that it would work with other companies that will provide applications and content for its Web appliance.

The Santa Clara, California-based giant said that it is already working with telecom operators, Internet service providers and E-commerce retailers worldwide to deploy new services based on its Web appliances.

Some analysts have noted that Intel's strategy might strain long-standing relationships with its computer customers. Compaq, IBM and others have plans to bring out similar devices, some of which will also be based around Intel chips and entirely depend upon non-Microsoft software. (Xinhua)