Intel is expected to launch its Shelton'08 low-cost desktop platform for systems priced as low as US$100 next year and targeting emerging markets, according to industry sources. Even though it is a desktop platform, its improved heat dissipation and power consumption will have Shelton'08 first being adopted for sub-US$300 notebooks in the third quarter of 2008, and shortly afterward for US$100 desktop systems, the sources said.
According to the sources, the platform will use 45nm Diamondville processors, with either Intel's 945GC or SiS 671 chipsets. It supports Microsoft Vista Basic.
US$100 desktop systems will be much lower-priced than just about all current mid-range and entry-level branded desktop PCs, which range in price from NT$10,000-20,000 (US$309.82-619.64), the sources commented, adding the launch of the Intel platform will spur a wave of demand for low-cost notebooks and desktops.
The sources revealed that Intel has already informed PC makers including Asustek Computer and Shuttle of its Shelton'08 plan, in the hopes that they can also step up the development of low-cost desktops for emerging markets.
Intel's Shelton platform may also show that Asustek's development of the Eee PC desktop version may have much better prospects than many observers would think, the sources said. Some PC makers have argued that demand for Eee PC desktops might not pick up amid a market trend where notebooks are quickly replacing desktops, according to the sources.
Article translated by Rodney Chan and edited by Michael McManus
