Intel has unveiled its plans for third-generation ultrabooks to downstream partners and is separating the segment into three major price levels, hoping to satisfy different consumer groups, according to sources from notebook makers.
Third-generation ultrabooks will adopt the new Haswell-based processors and have three price levels – US$599-798, US$799-998 and US$999 and above – with display sizes ranging from 11.6- to 15-inch.
Intel's Wireless Display (WiDi) technology and 4GB DDR3 memory will be standard specifications.
For the US$599-798 segment, the ultrabooks will feature a clamshell industrial design, adopting an Intel Core i3 processor, Intel HD Graphics 4000 GPU and 500GB hybrid drive (HDD/SSD). The devices will also have battery longevity of about eight hours and one week in idle mode.
For the US$699-998 segment, designs will be either convertible or detachable, adopting an Intel Core i5 processor, Intel HD Graphics 5100 GPU and 128GB solid state drive (SSD). This segment's ultrabooks will also feature HD cameras, audio and speakers as well as dual-array microphones and sensors.
For the US$999 and above segment, the ultrabooks will also adopt either convertible or detachable industrial designs and equip a Core i7 processor, an Intel HD Graphics 5100 GPU and a 250GB SSD. However, Intel demands the ultrabooks' weights be maintained at below 2.5kg, the sources noted.
