Intel, Altera Team Up to Simplify Sensor Integration for Physical AI

Intel and Altera are collaborating on programmable sensor-bridge solutions designed to simplify the integration of multiple sensors into edge computing and physical artificial intelligence (AI) systems.

The initiative combines Intel’s processors, connectivity technologies, and software with Altera’s field-programmable gate array (FPGA) chips. The companies aim to help OEMs develop intelligent machines that can collect, process, and respond to real world data with predictable timing and low latency.

Intel processors will provide the host computing platform, while the combined hardware and software approach is intended to streamline the movement of sensor data into memory for processing by the main system.

The partnership is targeting applications in healthcare, aerospace and defense, and robotics, where systems must handle increasingly complex combinations of sensors while meeting constraints on performance, power consumption, cost, and physical size.

Physical AI refers to intelligent systems that interact with the physical world, such as robots, industrial machines, and advanced medical equipment. Unlike conventional AI, which primarily processes stored data or responds to digital input, physical AI systems must continuously gather information from their surroundings and act/react quickly.

Intel and Altera plan to address these requirements through modular reference designs that combine programmable hardware with Intel’s computing and software platforms. Intel acquired Altera in 2015 but sold a majority stake in 2025, making it an independent company.

Altera’s FPGAs can be configured to handle sensor connectivity, data processing and timing-sensitive control functions. Unlike fixed-function hardware, FPGA logic can be reprogrammed on the fly to support different interfaces and processing requirements as needed.

The companies say the reference designs should help OEMs reduce integration work and move more quickly from prototypes to commercial deployment. They are targeting three major markets: healthcare, aerospace and defense, and robotics.

The companies intend to make the resulting reference solutions accessible through Intel’s Open Edge Platform software development kit (SDK) and an Altera SDK, giving developers software resources to work with the combined hardware.