[libreplanet-discuss] Does VIA's x86 CPUs have non-free "ME"s?

[Pen-Yuan Hsing]

Dear Libreplanet,

As we all know, a major problem with Intel (and AMD) x86 CPUs is that 
they come with a proprietary "Management Engine (ME)" (or "Platform 
Security Processor" for AMD) that is not only non-free but also with 
demonstrated security holes.

I just recalled that VIA Technologies also have a line of x86 CPUs [1]. 
Do VIA CPUs also have the equivalent of the much-maligned ME? Or are VIA 
CPUs more freedom-respecting? Would it help software freedom at all (or 
not?) to use VIA CPUs instead? I'm curious!

[1]: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VIA_Technologies#Processors