Ultrabooks to headline CES 2012

Ultrabooks to headline CES 2012: Source

02:37 PM Jan 04, 2012

LONDON - Up to 60 new slimline 'ultrabook' computers could be launched at CES 2012, according to manufacturers and analysts.

The new 'ultrabook' format builds on the success of Apple's Macbook Air, although the term itself has been trademarked by Intel for its slim but powerful laptops that run Windows.

Asus, Lenovo, Dell and HP have already launched some products, including the Asus Zenbook, but research director of the Consumer Electronics Association Shawn DuBravac told a London event last month that "30 to 50" ultrabooks could launch at the International Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2012 in Las Vegas next week. Analysts now believe the figure could be even higher as less well-known manufacturers add ultrabooks to their ranges.

IHS iSuppli claims that ultrabooks will make up 43 per cent of global PC shipments in 2015, up from 13 per cent in 2012. Intel itself is predicting 40 per cent, driven in large part by a fall in American prices to below US$850 (S$1,094). The Asus Zenbook currently retails for S$1,498 in Singapore.

Principal analyst of computer platforms at consultancy IHS Matthew Wilkins told business technology news site InformationWeek that "notebook PCs must go on a diet to match the appeal of media tablets, not to mention the MacBook Air".

He said that "With media tablets having already reversed the expansion of the previously fast-growing netbook platform, PC makers now are keenly aware that the notebook must evolve to maintain market growth and relevance. The ultrabook, which borrows some of the form-factor and user-interface advantages of the media tablet, will enhance the allure of the venerable notebook."

Intel chairman Paul Otellini is also expected to announce the company's latest generation of chips, to be called 'Ivy Bridge', which will allow even faster devices that will use less power than their predecessors.

THE DAILY TELEGRAPH

Source: www.todayonline.com/TechandDigital/Digital/EDC120104-0000106/Ultrabooks-to-headline-CES-2012--Source