Why Did Intel Pull Out of OLPC?

Intel announced today that it will terminate its formal relationship with Nicholas Negroponte's OLPC initiative. Although both Intel and Negroponte share the common goal of supporting a billion children with computer technology, Intel cited philosophical differences with Negroponte on how best to realize the common vision.

If Intel remains committed to the common goal, what was the problem? The problem was Negroponte's unreasonable demand that Intel exclusively support the OLPC XO laptop and break all other commitments with governments and customers considering other solutions, including the Classmate PC.

Intel remains steadfast in its support of the OLPC mission. There is more than rhetoric to back up the claim. Intel has donated over a billion dollars over the last ~10 years to advance the use of computer technology in schools. In over 30 countries, millions of teachers have been trained and they in turn have helped countless more students.

Negroponte's recent actions indicate that he seems to think that he owns this effort alone. Its either his way or not at all. History tells us that this kind of hubris precedes the fall. Given his lackluster success so far, mediocre arrogance might be another way to describe the reason for these recent events. But with Intel still committed to the goal, thankfully the children should still realize the benefit they deserve.