Intel to launch Linux-powered mobile Internet device
Intel is developing its own take on the mini-tablet, with a new ultra-mobile PC platform to be announced at this week’s Intel Developer Forum in Beijing. The big surprise? It’s based on Linux.
The MID2007 platform, currently codenamed McCaslin, will gain a more marketing-friendly moniker closer to next year’s release of the products. This is tipped to be an extension of the successful Centrino mobile brand, in the same manner as the recent announcement earlier this month of a higher-end Centrino Pro brand for enterprise-class notebooks incorporating Intel’s vPro management technology.
Typical MID uses will be "staying in touch", entertainment, information and location-based services. Intel’s presentation specifically cites Google Maps and Web-based office and enterprise applications in the last two categories. Connectivity will be provided through Wi-Fi and support for wide-area coverage via 3G HSDPA. MID tablets will run a simplified finger-friendly user interface optimized for the small screens, based on the Gnome desktop but with an Intel-developed master user interface layer to serve as an equivalent to the desktop.
Intel first tipped its hand in the UMPC space at least year's IDF, when it showcased several prototype devices no larger than a paperback book and announced a partnership with Yahoo to deliver a rich Web-based backend of business and personal services.
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