As long as the Intel Atom line of CPUs has been around, there has been a screen size limit attached to the CPUs. Intel would only officially allow the Atom line to go into netbooks with screens up to 10.2 inches. This restriction has been a significant factor in defining the market segment for Atom-based devices, primarily targeting ultra-portable and budget-friendly netbooks.
Introduction of the Atom N550
Intel has a new Atom CPU set to launch in the second half of 2010, called the Atom N550. This CPU is a dual-core unit and will be allowed to go into machines with screens of 11.6 inches and 12.1 inches. This change marks a significant shift in Intel’s strategy, as it will enable manufacturers to offer larger screen sizes while still utilizing the Atom platform. For users who can live with Atom performance, this means access to a larger display, making the Atom platform more appealing to a broader audience.
Technical Specifications and Requirements
Machines that use the new N550 CPU will have to be fitted with at least 1GB of DDR3 RAM and at least a 32GB SSD or 250GB HDD. These requirements ensure that devices powered by the Atom N550 will have a baseline level of performance and storage capacity, which is crucial for running modern applications and operating systems efficiently. The inclusion of DDR3 RAM, in particular, is a notable upgrade, as it offers better performance and energy efficiency compared to the older DDR2 standard.
The easing of restrictions on CPU use should help Intel increase sales of its Atom line. By allowing larger screen sizes, Intel is effectively broadening the market for Atom-based devices. This move could attract users who previously found the 10.2-inch limit too restrictive, such as those who need a larger display for productivity tasks or multimedia consumption.
Impact on the Market
The introduction of the Atom N550 and the relaxation of screen size restrictions could have several implications for the market. Firstly, it could lead to a new wave of netbooks and ultra-portable laptops that offer a better balance between portability and usability. Larger screens can make a significant difference in user experience, especially for tasks like web browsing, document editing, and video playback.
Moreover, this change could also spur innovation among manufacturers. With the ability to use larger screens, companies might experiment with new form factors and designs, potentially leading to more versatile and appealing products. For instance, we might see more convertible laptops or devices with higher resolution displays, which were previously not feasible with the Atom platform due to screen size limitations.
Examples of Potential Devices
Consider a student who needs a lightweight, affordable laptop for taking notes, researching online, and streaming educational videos. A netbook with an 11.6-inch or 12.1-inch screen powered by the Atom N550 could be an ideal choice, offering a good balance between screen real estate and portability. Similarly, a professional who travels frequently might appreciate a larger screen for presentations and multitasking without the bulk of a traditional laptop.
The launch of the Atom N550 and the associated relaxation of screen size restrictions represent a significant development for Intel’s Atom line. By allowing larger screens, Intel is not only enhancing the appeal of Atom-based devices but also opening up new possibilities for innovation and market expansion. This move is likely to benefit both consumers and manufacturers, making the Atom platform a more versatile and attractive option in the competitive landscape of portable computing.
via DigiTimes
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