Intel prepares cheaper alternative to current UMPCs
updated 04:30 pm EDT, Mon April 16, 2007
Intel's UMPC alternative
Intel is teasing the media with hints about its new Mobile Internet Device (MID) platform, which will be unveiled more fully at tomorrow's Intel Developer Forum in Beijing. MID attempts to remedy problems currently plaguing the UMPC market, namely high prices -- while the computers may be less expensive than most laptops, their broad featuresets have kept them priced more in the range of business users, rather than home ones. Intel's strategy involves scaling the computer back: using an embedded version of Linux rather than Windows XP Tablet, and shrinking the screen to four to six inches. The proposed processor is a dual-core model running between 600 to 800MHz.
To further reduce costs, Intel is suggesting three different types of MID. The "Stay in Touch" model would be geared for e-mail, VoIP and instant messaging, and would also be able to capture photos and video. "Be Entertained" systems would be able to handle TV, gaming, music and streaming video, while the "Access Info and Locate" MID would be equipped with GPS tracking and points-of-interest abilities. In all cases, the computers would be fitted with WiFi, Bluetooth and 3G-level HSDPA. No partners or timeframes for MIDs have been announced as yet, but prices should easily fall below $1,000. [via DailyTech]
