I don't think the point is to make money on these kinds of ventures. I think the point is to make money on the core products, by growing the overall market pie.
Here is one depiction of the logic behind it all: - Web 2.0 'stuff' engages more people than ever before. - Those people have to use computers to engage. - More computers = more Intel silicon needs.
Enabling an industry with more ways to use your key products is a great way to run a business.