Imagination Technologies, makers of the PowerVR series of graphics cores found in the iPhone and iPod touch, has introduced the PowerVR SGX545, a new embedded graphics IP core that could possibly make its way into future iPhone and iPod touch models. The new core offers the ability to drive HD screens at high frame rates, and supports a wide range of graphics programming APIs, including OpenGL ES 2.x, OpenGL 3.x, and OpenCL 1.x—a standard that allows developers to tap into the power of the graphics core to handle more common computing tasks. According to Imagination, the core has already been proven in “a test chip from Imagination and licensed by a lead partner.” The iPhone 3GS and third-generation iPod touch also use PowerVR SGX graphics cores; in addition, Apple owns a portion of Imagination and more than doubled its stake in the company last year, from 3.6 percent to 9.5 percent.
Charles Starrett
Charles Starrett was a senior editor at iLounge. He's been covering the iPod, iPhone, and iPad since their inception. He has written numerous articles and reviews, and his work has been featured in multiple publications.