John Antone, general manager for Intel in Asia-Pacific, said the two new Centrino processors are based on Intel Core2 Duo technology and are for the next generation of laptop computers. The Centrino Duo processor is designed for consumer use and the Intel Centrino Pro is for businesses.

The Intel Centrino Duo is a new processor which comes with more power for multitasking or intensive applications such as gaming, entertainment, wireless technology and power-saving features to meet a mobile lifestyle. It allows users to enjoy their entertainment with friends and family as well as while on the go.

Meanwhile, the Intel Centrino Pro is new processor which comes with manageability and security designed for business and IT professionals. It delivers outstanding mobility for enterprises. It is bundled with an Intel Core2 Duo mobile chip with Intel Intelligent Power Capability and is built for improved energy efficiency.

"These latest processor technologies are designed to enable breakthrough performance and improve battery life over the previous generation Intel Centrino processor technology platforms," said Antone.

Antone said the laptop-computer market in Asia Pacific has double-digit growth. In 2007 growth will be around 32 per cent with around eight million units sold and the market will have a compound annual growth rate of around 27 per cent until 2011, reaching 15 million units. Emerging markets are especially strong.

Accharas Ouysinprasert, country manager of Intel Microelectronics (Thailand), said the next couple of generations of mobile computers will be a target for Intel in the next several quarters since the new technologies, specially the Centrino Duo processors, have affordable prices, with price increases over the existing mainstream Centrino processors of only around Bt5,000. These will also replace the existing processors in the next stage.  

He said the Centrino Pro processor offers built-in manageability and proactive security for business. Intel introduced the first Centrino processor in 2003 under the code named Banias, which enabled people to embrace mobile computers in their work and personal life.

"The mobile-PC market continues to grow at a phenomenal rate. Today's first-time buyers are looking at laptop computers for their first PC," said Antone.

The firm also said it has sold mobile computer processor and desktop computer processor covering 90 per cent of all units in the market.

Jirapan Boonnoon

The Nation