Intel chief executive Brian Krzanich said Tuesday that computing is being "unleashed" by the move to wearables as the tech giant unveiled a button-sized device for new connectivity.

Speaking at a keynote at the huge Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, Krzanich said he sees wearables and similar technology taking computing power out of the constraints of the traditional screen and keyboard.

"We're going from a two-dimensional world to a three-dimensional world," he told a CES crowd.

"So computing becomes unwired, and everything becomes smart and connected."

Krzanich unveiled the Intel Curie module, a device the size of a button which is essentially a system chip for smart garments, glasses and other wearables.

"Curie is the next generation of computing," he said at the presentation, where he outlined plans for connected eyewear, garments and drones.

The new trend offers a whole new range or intuitive computing without keyboard or screens or mice.

"It can unleash us," Krzanich said.

He also said the California tech giant would spend $300 million over the next five years to improve diversity in its workforce to bring more women and minorities into the group.

Krzanich said Intel would seek "full representation at all levels" of women and minorities in the company by 2020, and said this was an effort to "lead by example" and encourage others in the sector to do the same.

"Our goal with Intel technology is to help solve real problems and enable experiences that are truly desired by people and businesses," he said.

"To do this, we must also do more to lead the growth of diversity and inclusion within the technology industry."