Intel launches Atom processors

Intel launched its new Atom chips, previously code-named Silverthorne, at the Intel Developer Forum in Shanghai.

According to Intel’s chief executive, Paul Otellini, the launch of the Atom processor is as significant as the introduction of the Pentium processor in the 1990s.

Atom is entirely Core 2 Duo-compatible, but requires only a tenth of the power. The first mobile internet devices with the new chip will be available in May or June this year.

The Atom processor will initially be available in five variants ranging from 800MHz to 1.86GHz, taking average power from 160mW to 220mW. It will be combined with the Intel System Controller Hub to make the Centrino Atom platform.

The Atom powered mobile intenet devices will be manufactured by companies such as Lenovo, Asus and Panasonic.

They will be compatible with both Windows XP and Vista, and Linux operating systems, and are described as the functional equivalent of a wireless-connected PC in pocket format.

The Atom will also be used in ‘netbooks’ and ‘nettops’ - lower-cost equivalents of notebooks and desktops.

The fact that the mobile internet devices are compatible with Windows XP supports rumours that Microsoft could be planning to extend licence availability for the operating system - it was due to run out in June.