The whole time we have been hearing about and reporting on the coming Intel Ultrabooks, the big selling point has been the low price of under $1000. As it turns out, that big selling point may not be accurate. Reports are coming in that both Asus and Acer are reconsidering their Ultrabook pricing.
Asus reportedly said that only using a Core i3 could it sell the Ultrabook at under $1000. Apparently, the Core i5 and i7 machines with the SSD inside could go as high as $2000. Acer has also noted that its Ultrabook machines will also cost more than $1000.
Acer’s reason is that they are deciding to focus on higher quality solutions at the highest price according to sources. What that means is they are hoping consumers will pay more than $1000 for the Ultrabook platform. If people buy the machines, I think everyone will sell them for more than $1000.
Factors Influencing Ultrabook Pricing
Several factors are influencing the pricing of these Ultrabooks. One of the primary reasons is the cost of components. High-quality components such as SSDs (Solid State Drives), advanced processors like Intel’s Core i5 and i7, and high-resolution displays significantly increase the production cost. These components are essential for delivering the performance and sleek design that Ultrabooks promise, but they come at a premium.
Another factor is the research and development (R&D) costs. Companies like Asus and Acer invest heavily in R&D to innovate and create cutting-edge technology. This investment needs to be recouped, and one way to do that is by setting higher prices for their products.
Moreover, the market positioning of Ultrabooks as premium devices also plays a role. By pricing these devices higher, manufacturers are positioning them as luxury items, which can attract a different segment of consumers who are willing to pay more for superior quality and performance.
Consumer Expectations and Market Trends
Consumer expectations also play a crucial role in the pricing strategy. Initially, the promise of Ultrabooks being available for under $1000 created a buzz and set a certain expectation. However, as consumers become more aware of the features and capabilities of these devices, they may be willing to pay a higher price for better performance and build quality.
Market trends indicate a growing demand for lightweight, high-performance laptops. With the increasing need for mobility and the rise of remote work, consumers are looking for devices that offer both portability and power. Ultrabooks fit this niche perfectly, and manufacturers are banking on this demand to justify the higher prices.
Additionally, competition within the market can influence pricing. If other manufacturers also start pricing their Ultrabooks above $1000, it sets a new benchmark, making it easier for companies like Asus and Acer to follow suit without losing their competitive edge.
In conclusion, while the initial promise of Ultrabooks being available for under $1000 was enticing, the reality of production costs, market positioning, and consumer expectations has led to a reconsideration of this pricing strategy. As Asus and Acer focus on delivering high-quality, high-performance devices, it is likely that the prices will reflect the premium nature of these Ultrabooks. Whether consumers are willing to pay the higher price remains to be seen, but the demand for advanced, portable computing solutions suggests that there is a market for these premium devices.
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