How Intel Got Its Name Intel was founded in 1968 by two ex-Fairchild Semiconductor employees, Gordon E. Moore and Robert N. Noyce. The company was originally called "N M Electronics." Legend has it, their preferred name — "Moore Noyce Electronics" — sounded too similar to "more noise," not a great brand message in that industry. "Integrated Electronics" was considered as a possible name, but was taken, so the first syllables of each word were used instead. "Intel," described by Noyce as "sort of sexy," was eventually agreed upon. The pair then purchased the "Intel" trademark from the Intelco hotel chain for just $15,000. Intel Once Made Watches In 1972, Intel moved into the jewelry market with the acquisition of digital watch maker Microma. At the time, digital watches were considered seriously high-tech, selling for hundreds of dollars, so the move was not a surprising one. The antici...
