In an effort to get consumers into using its new AppUp Center, Intel is now offering the PC version of Angry Birds free for a limited time. The only catch is that fans must download and install the Intel AppUp Center client from Best Buy's website, and create a new account. The free app giveaway also only applies to US-based residents.
But as Intel warns, the new AppUp Center isn't for every computer, designed mainly for Atom-based netbooks. However, the client is compatible with some desktop and laptop computers running the 32-bit version of Windows XP and both versions of Windows 7 (32 and 64-bit). Netbooks are required to have Windows XP (SP3), Windows 7 Starter Edition, Home Basic or Home Premium installed.
Intel originally launched the beta of its app store for Atom netbooks during CES 2011 back in January. The initial batch of free and premium apps spanned across education, entertainment, games, health and others. Acer, Asus , Dell and Samsung were even among the first OEMs to jump on board, announcing their support for app stores based on Intel's new AppUp Center during the show.
Intel President and CEO Paul Otellini later stated that Intel and its partners expected to "expand the stores over time to include applications for other large categories such as PCs, handheld CE devices, smartphones, CE appliances, TVs and other devices based on future Intel processor families." But as of this writing, both Intel's AppUp Center client and Rovio's Angry Birds worked flawlessly on a notebook running Windows Home Premium 64-bit and AMD's dual-core Athlon II P340 processor (see screenshot). Of course, that doesn't mean every app will work correctly.
Currently Intel's app store features twenty-two separate categories including Security, Books, News, Intel Learning Series and lots more. Premium and free games include Slingo Deluxe, Raging Thunder 2, The Last Stand and even Age of Conquest 3. Intel said Angry Birds will be free while "supplies last," so go sign up for the AppUp Center here.
