Intel Details Newly Branded Atom x3, x5, and x7 CPUs at Mobile World Congress

[[Coi] Mr.CLuBBeR]

Making a move for mobile

Intel last week had already given the heads up that it was rebranding its Atom processors into three performance tiers -- Atom x3, Atom x5, and Atom x7. The Santa Clara chip maker didn't provide any details at the time, leading us to speculate that the first new Atom parts would be based on the company's upcoming 14nm Cherry Trail architecture. Turns out we were two-thirds correct, as Intel has now formally introduced its next generation Atom parts.
As expected, Intel's Atom x5 and x7 are Cherry Trail parts, but the Atom x3 is a new processor series formerly codenamed SoFIA. It's Intel's first integrated communications System-on-Chip (SoC) and will take aim at the growing value and entry-level smartphone, tablet, and phablet markets.
"Combining 64-bit multi-core Intel Atom processors together with 3G or 4G LTE connectivity, the integrated communications SoC combines the applications processor, image sensor processor, graphics, audio, connectivity and power management components in a single system chipset. This integration allows device manufacturers to deliver full-featured tablets, phablets and smartphones at affordable price points for the rapidly growing entry and value market segments," Intel said.
Meanwhile, the Atom x5 and X7 are more traditional Atom parts and represents Intel's first 14nm Atom SoC (Cherry Trail, as previously mentioned). They'll power next-generation tablets and small-screen 2-in-1 devices while bringing 64-bit support for both Windows and Android. Several hardware partners have already committed to using the new Atom parts, including Acer, Asus, Dell, HP, Lenovo, and Toshiba. Each of them are expected to release devices in the first half of the year.
Atom x3 based devices will start at around $75; Atom x5 and x7 devices will enter the market place at $250 to $349 for mid-range options, and $350 on up for performance products.
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