Intel has announced plans for the Ultrabook, a “new breed of no-compromise computer” according to Executive VP Sean Maloney, who introduced the device at the Computex show in Taipei.
In 2012, the Ultrabook will be built using the next-gen processor family codenamed Ivy Bridge, based on a 22nm process and using the 3D transistor technology unveiled earlier this month which Intel claims offers a near 40% performance increase at low voltage over and above current 32nm planar transistors.
To begin with, though, the devices will employ Intel’s current second-gen Core processors (Sandy Bridge). The Ultrabook will be thin and light – less than 20mm thick – with pricing under the $1000 mark.
Asus was on hand to announce the Asus UX21 Ultrabook (with a very MacBook Air appearance) which should be available this Christmas.
Asus Chairman Jonney Shih joined Maloney on stage and commented: “At Asus, we are very much aligned with Intel’s vision of Ultrabook. Our customers are demanding an uncompromised computing experience in a lightweight, highly portable design that responds to their needs quickly.”
“Transforming the PC into an ultra thin, ultra responsive device will change the way people interact with their PC.”
Maloney reckons that by the end of 2012, 40% of the consumer laptop market will comprise of these devices.
After Ivy Bridge, a third stage of evolution is planned for the Ultrabook in 2013 with Haswell, which will “reinvent” the capabilities of the ultra-thin form factor laptop.
Intel claims Haswell is set to halve the power requirements of today’s microprocessor, or to put it another way, it will double the portable’s battery life.
