When it came time to renegotiate the price, Hoff made a critical recommendation to Noyce, one that helped create a huge market for general-purpose chips and assured that Intel would remain a driver of the digital age. It was a deal point that Bill Gates and Microsoft would emulate with IBM a decade later. In return for giving Busicom a good price, Noyce insisted that Intel retain the rights to the new chip and be allowed to license it to other companies for purposes other than making a calculator.
During the renegotiation of pricing with Busicom, Hoff advised Noyce on a strategy that would prove essential for Intel's future. This recommendation not only led to a significant market for general-purpose chips but also positioned Intel as a key player in the emerging digital landscape. The move to retain rights to the chip and allow licensing to other firms highlighted a transformative approach that would later be mirrored by Bill Gates and Microsoft in their dealings with IBM.
By securing favorable pricing with Busicom while maintaining control over intellectual property, Noyce ensured that Intel could expand its influence beyond calculators. This strategic decision marked a turning point, enabling Intel to license their innovative technology to various industries, thus setting the stage for future computing advancements. It underscores the foresight of Noyce and Hoff, which ultimately contributed to the digital revolution.
