As the updated reader is well aware of, AMD launched a new platform for ultraportable computers at the start of the year. Code-named Yukon and a single-core Athlon Neo processor (a stripped-down Athlon K8 CPU) this platform would form the foundation of future ultraportables, the first already announced by HP. AMD has now confirmed the rumors of a dual-core version being in development.
This processor, code-named Conesus, will launch in the later half of 2009 with the platform Congo and deliver plenty of performance in a small package. According to rumors, the Congo platform will be based on AMD’s RS780M chipset with the SB710 southbridge and work in the 15W TDP envelope, which certainly tends for a very low level of noise and long battery time.
Unlike Intel and its Atom processor AMD is targeting the somewhat bigger notebooks. It wants to create cheaper ultraportable notebooks that are still usable for heavier applications and not just browsing the web and taking notes. The size segment will be 12-14″ and a retail price of around $600.
Thus AMD claims that it is in fact not competing directly with Intel’s Atom, even if there of course is an indirect competition when you have to choose between the two segments. Whether this was a strategic move due to lack of belief in the emerging netbook market or if AMD is simply lacking the resources and/or technology to compete where Intel is only meeting minor competition from VIA, is hard to say, but as the future becomes today we shall know soon.
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