Intel launches low-cost quad-core mobile chip

Intel has launched a low-cost quad-core mobile processor and added more mobile Core 2 Duo processors to its chip lineup, according to an updated price list dated December 28.

Acer was one of the first PC makers to announce a system with the new quad-core processor. On Monday Acer released the Aspire 8930G-7665 laptop designed for extreme gaming using the new Intel Core 2 Quad Mobile Processor Q9000, which runs at 2.53GHz. The laptop comes with a 18.4-inch WUXGA screen and Nvidia GeForce 9700M GT graphics. It is priced at $1,799.

The Q9000 processor is listed at $348, significantly less expensive than the existing QX9300 mobile quad-core processor, which is listed at $1,038, and the Q9100, listed at $851. Both of these processors, however, have 12MB of cache memory, twice the amount of the cheaper Q9000, which integrates 6MB of cache. Generally, the more cache memory, the faster the processor.

Intel also released other mobile processors: the 2.93GHz T9800 ($530), the 2.66GHz P9600 Core 2 Duo ($348), the 2.66GHz T9550 ($316), and the 2.53GHz P8700 ($241).

T series processors typically have a power envelope (TDP, or thermal design power) of 35 watts, while P series chips have a 25W TDP.

[chuchucuhi]

Well it's no mobile version of an i7 announcement but I'll take it.

[infernalman7]

I wish Apple would take a look at where Acer is right now and come up with the proper MacBook Pro this time.

[Mr. Dee]

Maybe they are planning to release such a processor in their 17 inch version of MB Pro unibody at Macworld. Remember, this Acer has 18 inch screen which would be in line with the MBP.

[BigGuns149]

I agree with you that Apple ought to include a mobile quad core in their new MBP. I have a good feeling that the 17" model is going to have at least the Q9000 assuming that Apple retains the current $2799 price point. At that price point I doubt that anyone would tolerate the CPU NOT being a mobile quad core. That being said the price jump for the Q9100 is so steep that even at $2800 I think that they are going to find that CPU a bit too expensive to make as a default.

Nevertheless Apple may slightly reduce the price on the entry level 17" because $2800 is pretty pricey for a machine that doesn't offer eSATA and only has a Geforce 9600M GT. Sure that is a nice GPU, but when there are less expensive laptops shipping with a 9700 or even a 9800M I think the price premium for it to be a Mac is a bit too steep.

Nevertheless I don't think that Apple has much to be concerned about because as far as I can tell Acer isn't shipping this thing yet. Acer's US site doesn't even list the model yet. AFAIK this is merely a paper launch. I bet it will be shown at CES, but won't be available until late January/early February. With a few notable exceptions (eg. iPhone, 24" LED display, etc.) Apple rarely does paper launches. Apple probably is already discreetly working on a 17" that uses this processor and may announce it at MacWorld and may even ship before Acer if not shortly after this Acer in question becomes available.

[KGL2793]

I think the Macbook Pro might be a more business oriented machine then the Acer...after all, the Acer has 16:9 widescreen, bluray reader and media controls, while the Macbook pro packs "5 hours of wireless productivity" and all those ever important ports and connectors...

[sting7k]

Core 2 Duo is old news, just get the mobile i7 to me intel I don't want a desktop anymore but I want that i7 processor.

[KGL2793]

hmm...actually, quad core mobile devices have been around for a while already, specifically with Dell mobile work stations and high end gaming computers such as the Falcon North West DRX notebook.

unfortunately, these hardly qualify as mobile platforms. The power drain and weight is enormous...