14 DAY TRIAL // Even though most tablets unveiled so far stuck to the ARM architecture, Intel appears to be quite certain that it won't take long for its own SoCs to start acting as the center piece of slates, even going as far as stating that the first models should debut in the coming months and quarters.
Granted, 'the coming months and quarters' is a purposely vague phrase, so it is still impossible to tell when Intel slates will make their appearance.
During its quarterly conference call with financial analysts, the Santa Clara, California-based chip giant should manage to score more design wins besides just the HP Slate and CTL's tablet.
These two mobile electronics run Windows 7, but future slates will supposedly be able to run Android and even MeeGo.
Granted, current Intel SoCs have disadvantages compared to ARM products, such as significantly higher power consumption and heat generation. They are also more expensive.
There is also the fact that the Atom Z600, the so-called Moorestown SoC, can't exactly run Windows 7.
Fortunately, the Oak Trail SoC that should debut in 2011, or late this year, will support this OS, although it is still unclear if it will have gotten over the energy and heat problems.
"We are deeply engaged with a number of partners to bring to market innovative tablet solutions. Our design win momentum is very strong, and in the coming months and quarters, you will see Intel solutions that run on Windows, Android and MeeGo operating systems across a variety of form factors and price points," said Paul Otellini, chief executive of Intel, in the quarterly conference call with financial analysts.
"We fully expect to participate broadly and profitably in this category, and that in the end, the tablet category will be additive to our bottom line and not take away from it," added Mr. Otellini.