Samsung and IBM Jointly Research Low-Power Chips

Since processors, one might say, have reached the point where their might is more than enough for whatever users may need, more emphasis is being placed on efficiency, and it seems Samsung and IBM want to optimize this particular aspect.

Ever since mobile computers really took off, there have been laptops with capabilities on par with those of all but the most advanced desktops.

What's more, more mobile devices have gained traction, like high-end smartphones, tablets and so on, all of them carrying strong processors and support for high-quality multimedia.

Since the chips that run such wonders can be said to already possess all the features one may expect them to, what follows is for the other traits to be refined.

Currently, energy efficiency is something that manufacturers, suppliers and consumers all take very seriously.

After all, a smartphone is not exactly wondrously appealing if it can do anything a product of its type can do but doesn't survive for more than a couple of hours.

Thus, chip makers are trying to reduce the power requirements, so that batteries may last longer.

That said, Samsung and IBM have decided to collaborate on researching and developing new process technologies and materials for low-power processors.

"Collaborative innovation will be critical if the semiconductor industry is to continue driving new forms of consumer electronics and new methods of computing," said Michael Cadigan, general manager, IBM Microelectronics.

"That's why we're excited to have Samsung scientists working with us at the most fundamental stages of the R&D process," he added.

Technology nodes like 20nm and lower, as well as new packaging and interconnect solutions are all part of Samsung's and IBM's plans.

It is unclear how long it will take for this effort to bear fruit, but when it does, not just mobile devices, but also IT infrastructures should be able to benefit.