Intel prepping cheap processor for lower-cost thin notebooks

CNET heard at CES that Intel is working on a new small Core architecture processor for lower-cost ultra-thin laptops. The site says these 22mm x 22mm chips will be a tweak of Intel's existing ultra-low-voltage (ULV) processors and that they will enable notebook makers to create laptops that are less than one inch thick.

The processors will distinguish themselves by targeting a price segment below pricey ultra-portables, which typically start at around $1,500 and range all the way up to $3,000--and higher in some cases. The processors will not compete with the Atom processor that powers Netbooks, which usually top out at $500.

In this sense, the new chips will be comparable to Advanced Micro Devices' recently announced Athlon Neo processor for ultra-thin laptops priced between $700 and $900.

The processor is "going to enable notebooks that are less than one inch (25mm)," according to the sources. The architecture will be a "tweak" of Intel's existing ULV (Ultra-Low-Voltage) processors, said the sources.

DV Hardware bringing you the hottest news about processors, graphics cards, Intel, AMD, NVIDIA, ATi, hardware and technology!

Intel prepping cheap processor for lower-cost thin notebooks