Intel predicts dynamic changes in notebook market in 2009

Developments in the mobile internet space will help fuel this trend through the implementation of mobile workstations, thinner and lighter notebooks and netbooks, in addition to the deployment of mobile internet devices (MIDs), wireless networking components, and services.

2009 will also see a greater focus on mobile internet expansion due to the increasingly pervasive nature of the internet and the trends accelerating its growth such as social networking, an evolutionary shift in the world of technology. An increase in online participation has also been predicated by IDC stating the presence of people online is expected to increase to a quarter of the world's population by next year. This in turn will result in an increased demand for products such as Notebook PC's, Netbooks and MID's.

Due to the demand of 'internet on the go', Intel expects the Atom processor to play a pivotal role in the evolution of high performance small portable devices. The Atom processor has been designed to allow consumers to take the real internet experience with them in their pocket by offering incomparable access to the entire Internet. The Atom processor will also help connect the next billion internet subscribers through more affordable usage models, such as the Intel Classmate PC.

MID's will continue to show long-term growth, with expected shipments worldwide to reach in excess of 130 million unites by 2013. These handheld devices based on the Intel Atom processor, will provide a quantum leap in capability in comparison to other existing handhelds.

Samir Al Schamma, Intel General Manager GCC, commented:

"Businesses today will be looking at ways in which their IT solutions can help them get back in shape by saving costs and gaining efficiencies - this is where the IT industry has room to flourish in the coming years."

"We believe emerging markets and the Gulf region will continue to present good business opportunities as they mature and require more advanced technical solutions," he added.

During 2009, Intel will continue to look at investing in innovative home-grown disruptive technologies such as the recent Intel Capital investment in the UAE-based company, Sphere, an emerging software security and networking company, in cooperation with Dubai Silicon Oasis. This investment underpins Intel's philosophy that smart companies should invest their way out of a recession, and help fuel economic growth. By keeping an eye on the future, Intel and the technology industry will therefore be able to continue to grow.

"For us as an industry we need to remember that during difficult market conditions, research and development remain a key component of our core business development as companies will always need better technological solutions," continued Al Schamma.

Continuing the trend of 'investment', Intel strongly believes that in order to create a knowledge-based society, digital technology will remain the gateway to economic and social progress. The adoption of WiMAX on a global scale is therefore viewed as imperative to providing two great opportunities; affordable internet for more people, thereby bridging the digital divide and enabling the real mobile internet experience.

"In 2009 we will see governments and telecom operators pushing for greater implementation of WiMAX as we begin to see a shift from available technologies affecting development, to development affecting available technologies. By this we mean, as notebooks come with WiMAX enablement, consumers will demand this broadband enablement, which will in turn push the industry and operators to roll out the service," added Al Schamma.

Looking back at 2008, Intel celebrated its 40th anniversary, during which it changed the way people live and work with consecutive technology breakthroughs and innovation. In the last 40 years, Intel maintained its leadership position with the remarkable introduction of new products and a myriad of chips and technologies for new market segments and high-tech growth areas across the world and the Arab region.