Intel and Qualcomm are ramping up to deliver new microprocessor platforms optimized for deployment in next-generation web tablets, ultrathin netbooks and other portable devices, executives from the companies told attendees at Computex Taiwan 2010 on Monday. The goal is to help mobile gadget makers bring next-generation devices to market that will be able to compete with Apple’s red-hot iPad.
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Apple announced over the holiday weekend that iPad sales have already topped two million since the tablet’s introduction April 3. Consumers in Australia, Canada, Japan and five European countries began lining up for iPad purchases Friday, and Apple expects to roll out the new device in nine more countries around the world, beginning later this year.
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Customers around the world are experiencing the magic of iPad and seem to be loving it as much as we do, said Apple CEO Steve Jobs. We appreciate their patience, and are working hard to build enough iPads for everyone.
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Multiple OS Options
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Code-named Oak Trail, Intel’s forthcoming platform for tablet and netbook designs will be capable of running the MeeGo operating system jointly produced by Intel and Nokia, Windows 7 from Microsoft, and a version of Android from Google. The design goal of the new Atom-based system on a chip is to reduce power consumption in next-generation tablets featuring thin form factors.
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Slated to begin shipping to OEMs in early 2011, Oak Trail is expected to deliver up to a 50 percent reduction in average power consumption with full HD video playback, Intel said. The new chip will also enable gadget makers to build tablets and netbooks with thicknesses of about one-half inch.
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The availability of Windows 7 on next-generation web tablets promises to deliver a consistent web experience across multiple computing platforms, though the touchscreen shortcomings of Microsoft’s operating system for PCs may end up limiting its deployment…