Intel Invests in Three Providers of Digital Service

Intel Corp., the world’s largest computer chip maker, said Wednesday that it invested part of a $200-million fund in three providers of digital services for the home whose success may increase demand for Intel’s products.

Undisclosed investments were made in closely held Gteko Ltd., Synacor Inc. and Zinio Systems Inc., Intel said. While Intel gave money before to Synacor and Zinio, the announcement is the company’s first investment in Gteko.

Intel, based in Santa Clara, Calif., established the $200-million fund last year to take advantage of the increasing popularity of digital services.

As more consumers listen to music, play games and access programming over the Internet, their computers will require faster processors and more advanced chips, spokeswoman Laura Anderson said.

“It helps drive demand for our products,” she said. “Intel has a digital home initiative, which includes developing products and providing capital to enable the broader availability of digital content.”

Gteko, based in Ra’anana, Israel, provides support services for personal computer makers, while Buffalo, N.Y.-based Synacor markets technology that allows people to watch sporting events and TV shows through broadband connections. San Francisco-based Zinio sells digital copies of magazines, including Business Week and Popular Science.

Intel shares fell 3 cents to $23.25 on Nasdaq.

The shares have fallen 27% this year.