Obviously, Intel thinks there's something to this multicore thing. That's evidenced by a pair of acquisitions the company made recently, both in the multicore software space.

The first, Cilk++, provides a simple set of extensions for C++, coupled with a run-time system for multicore-enabled applications. According to the company, Cilk++ solves the two key multicore-related problems: it enables mainstream programmers to develop multithreaded (or parallel) applications; and it provides a smooth path to multicore for legacy (non-multicore) applications.

The second company, Canada-based Rapidmind, has a similar goal to the first, namely to simplify the programming of a multicore-based system. The company's Multicore Development Platform simplifies the development of parallel applications, reducing the cost and timelines of software development when compared to multi-threaded projects.

Stay tuned, as there's likely more to come.