What is OpenCL

I have written quite a bit about OpenCL, and have started assuming everyone just knows what it is. So it was good to come across this article in Develop3D on What is OpenCL.

Quick summary: OpenCL allows the GPU to help the CPU do the computing or data crunching, to enable faster and more efficient processing. By allowing the CPU and the GPU to work together, OpenCL allows more computing to be done in a shorter amount of time than a single processor could ever achieve on its own. Arguably, the most important element of OpenCL is that it is open; it is based on standards created by a group of companies, and therefore all vendors involved in this project have a vested interest in making it work. (contrast this to Nvidia-controlled CUDA and MS-controlled DirectCompute).