Intel is expanding its reach in the embedded software market with its planned purchase of Wind River Systems. The deal will cost Intel US$884 million, and will help bolster the company's position in the mobile device market.

Renee James, Intel's vice president and general manager of the company's Software and Services Group, said that the deal "will bring us complementary, market-leading software assets and an incredibly talented group of people to help us continue to grow our embedded systems and mobile device capabilities."

Once the acquisition is complete, Intel plans to use Wind River's talents to improve its own software capabilities in mobile devices and embedded systems such as smart phones and mobile Internet devices, in-car information and entertainment systems, networking, and aerospace and defense.

The companies are waiting for regulatory approval, but expect to complete the transaction some time this summer.