14 DAY TRIAL // After having gained the top position in the market for low-power computer systems, also known as netbooks and nettops, Santa Clara, California-based Intel is preparing for the next generation of Mobile Internet Devices or MIDs. The chip maker has just announced that it has developed a new product that is meant to deliver better graphics at a lower power consumption, for devices such as MIDs, UMPCs or netbooks. The product is an ultra-compact graphics accelerator for ultra-mobile devices, called SIMD Accelerator (Single Instruction, Multiple Data).
According to Intel, the new SIMD Accelerator will be capable of providing the necessary graphics performance required by MIDs, but will consume about 10 times less power than any other similar solution being offered today. This is one of the main features of the new product, as it translates into an increased runtime of future MIDs, which will also be capable of providing their users with richer multimedia and higher-quality visuals. This is a noteworthy features as MIDs are expected to enable users access to the Internet and multimedia applications for a longer period of time, when compared to today's ultra-compact computer systems or notebooks.
Intel did not detail the entire list of technical specifications that will be enabled by the new SIMD, but we should know more when the first devices based on Intel's new SIMD will be announced.
Intel has recently taken a significant interest in the development of its MID platform, codenamed Moorestown. According to the company, the first MID product on the new platform should become available sometime next year, when the Moorestown will come to market. MIDs will allow users to combine multiple devices into a single, ultra-portable one, which should offer a great visual experience, easy interface and quick Internet access. Unlike netbooks, these devices should be small enough to fit the user's pocket.