Intel unveils next-generation low-cost 'Netbooks'

By Tim Conneally | Published April 3, 2008, 1:47 PM

The Classmate PC, Intel's answer to OLPC's so-called XO-1 "$100 Laptop" (powered by AMD), is now in its second generation, with Intel already looking toward future models based upon the Atom architecture.

The new Classmate PC's debut took place today at the Intel Developer Forum in Shanghai. Built upon Intel's Celeron M processor and supporting Windows XP and Linux variants, the low-cost portable computers the company has termed "netbooks" offer 802.11b/g and MESH network capabilities, two USB 2.0 ports and one SD slot standard.

The premium version includes 512MB of RAM, 30GB HDD, 9-inch 800 x 400 color LCD screen, and a 6-cell battery with an average 5-hour lifespan.

With a total weight between 1.27KG-1.49KG, the updated Classmate now offers a 30fps (640 x 480) .3M webcam, and EPOS digital pen as options.

The 900MHz Celeron M is designed for mobile computing and has thus far been employed in numerous mobile Internet devices and ultra-mobile PCs, such as the Asus Eee PC and the Samsung Q1.

Intel's Vice President Andrew Chien said in his keynote that future versions of Classmate PCs will be built upon the Intel Atom architecture, enabling the low-cost wireless devices to run even more efficiently.

As a competitor to the OLPC XO-1 in affordable computing solutions for developing nations, the Classmate PC has thus far outperformed its rival in sales. In August 2007, Intel struck a deal to provide 150,000 Classmates to Libya, and Allama Iqbal University in Pakistan ordered 700,000 devices. Nigeria ordered 17,000 Mandriva Linux-equipped Classmate PCs as well.

The XO-1 has been marketed as a more rugged device than the Intel Classmate, with a screen meant for outdoor viewing and a rubber membrane keyboard. But the keyboard, which has caused legal trouble in Nigeria, has recently been shownto easily tear from the chassis.

Intel has not specified any pricing for the new Classmate PC, but reports estimate it costs between $250 and $350 USD. The OLPC XO-1 currently costs around $180 USD.