HP Chromebook 14

Intel today announced a new family of Core M (Broadwell) processors that will help make hardware even thinner. Tablets and 2-in-1 personal computers are already pretty darn thin, especially when you compare everything available in 2014 against what was on the market a few years ago. Intel has played its part in offering more advanced processors to cut down on unnecessary space taken up by cooling solutions without compromising on power and the next-gen Core M chips will further help manufacturers.

Intel has been pushing hard to make inroads with Android manufacturers, with their Atom chips ending up in a handful of tablets like the Acer Iconia A1-830, Dell's Venue series, and the Samsung Galaxy Tab 3 (but not the Galaxy Tab 4). Chromebooks, however, are where Intel's Core M processor could find a home. Intel and Google have been working together on making Chrome OS more x86-friendly, and the Core M processor could mean faster, thinner, lighter, and cooler (temperature-wise) Chromebooks.

Presenting the new chips at Computex, Intel president Renee James showed off a 2-in-1 PC powered by the company's new 14nm Intel Core M chip, making way into the fifth generation (Broadwell) of Intel processors. The new processors utilize less energy and improves battery life, while providing enough power for consumers to enjoy a smooth experience on supported devices. The 2-in-1 PC shown off at Computex was just 7.2mm thick (see below photo) with no fans to hear or external exhausts to see.

Intel Core M Computex

According to data supplied by Intel during the presentation, the new Core M processors will feature the following:

  • Runs up to 60 percent cooler
  • Will offer an increase of performance between 20 and 40 percent
  • Between 10 and 45 percent lower power draw
  • Takes up 50 percent less space in devices

This all sounds solid for consumers who are after yet more power in their hands, without having to deal with issues generated with more powerful processors (heat generation, etc). It'll also be interesting to see just what Chromebook manufacturers are able to cook up with a smaller and more efficient processor like the Core M.

Source: Engadget