Dual Core Atom Processor to Make Netbooks Faster
Despite being ridiculed for cramped keyboards and slow performance, netbooks continue to make up a significant portion of PC sales, largely due to their cheap prices. But a scheduled update to the Atom processor this summer will bring the power of dual-core processors to the underpowered netbook.
According to previous statements from Intel, manufacturer of the Atom processor, a new dual-core version of the Atom will be available by the end of next month.
The Atom processor in netbooks has been single-core, which is great for battery life but not great for performance. Dual cores, a common configuration in desktops and laptops that allow computers to complete more tasks at once, will help netbooks close the gap in performance between them and laptops.
That doesn't mean netbooks will catch up to laptops in performance. Intel will still make the dual-core Atoms less powerful than laptop processors to preserve battery life and cost. The main selling point of netbooks will always remain the price. However, dual-core Atom processors could make the netbook an even more attractive purchase because buyers won't be sacrificing as much power.
