Intel’s much-anticipated new generation of processor family – 6th Generation Intel Core “Skylake” – is officially in Malaysia. The processor launch was held at the invite-only Intel Channel Symposium 2015 at the Genting International Convention Centre. Built on Intel’s 14nm manufacturing process technology, 6th Gen Intel Core chips are set to power a plethora of exciting devices for the next couple of years.
Hello, Skylake
In his opening keynote, Sumner Lemon, country manager Intel Malaysia and Singapore said, “New 6th Gen Intel Core-based systems are more responsive than ever with enhanced performance, battery life and security. They can enable amazing new PC experiences like logging into your computer using your face as your password and voice activated personal assistants. The combination of 6th Gen Intel Core processors, Windows 10 and beautiful new system from PC manufacturers make this the best time ever to buy a new computer.”
The launch was also graced by Bruce Howe, director of consumer channels group, Microsoft Malaysia; and key executives from OEM partners like Acer, ASUS, Dell, HP, Lenovo, MSI and more.
The debut of the next generation Intel chips couldn’t have come at a better time. With the launch of the new Microsoft Windows 10 operating system, Intel’s Skylake systems will help invigorate consumer interest as new devices become more powerful, power efficient, thinner and lighter.
The fact is that there are over 500 million computers in use today that are at least four to five years old or older. In internet years, that’s prehistoric (go ahead, admit it, you own one… or two). You have a notebook that wakes up at the same amount of time it takes to make a cup of coffee. Battery life is less than an hour. And you get 15fps when you play CS:GO.
With Skylake built on Intel’s leading 14nm manufacturing process tech, you’re getting chips that deliver 2.5x better performance, 3x the battery life and up to 30x better graphics performance than that of a 5-year old PC.
You’ll also get a system that’s ultra thin, weighs almost nothing, powers on in second and with battery life that lasts the entire day.
Is there even a decision to make?
Sexier, thinner, lighter and more choice
The 6th Gen Intel Core platform offers the widest range of processors ever – from as low as 4.5W TDP all the way up to 45W. This allows support for the broadest range of device designs – from thumb-sized Intel Compute Stick, to versatile 2-in-1 convertibles, huge all-in-one desktop PCs, hardcore gaming PCs, to new mobile workstations.
For the first time ever, the high performance, low power Intel Core M processors now include brand levels – Intel Core m3, m5 and m7 to fit specific needs. The new upcoming Intel Compute Stick will feature the Intel Core M processor.
There are several other firsts for 6th Gen Intel Core as well. The mobile “K” SKU allows overclocking which adds more flexibility and enhanced user control on mobile devices. Also, the Intel Xeon E3 processor family now powers mobile workstations for ultimate performance on-the-go.
Graphics has always been a key focus and with 6th Gen Intel Core, so expect significant improvements as well as stunning visuals for gaming, and in 4K content creation and playback.
Intel Speed Shift technology improves responsiveness of mobile systems for enhanced performance.
Connectivity: More, faster
The new 6th Gen Intel Core and Intel Xeon platforms feature Thunderbolt 3 for USB Type-C – a do-everything-in-one-port technology. Expect more devices in the coming months featuring USB Type-C.
Intel has been showcasing its Intel RealSense Camera since last year. Aside from the Dell Venue 8 tablet, there has been a dearth of devices featuring the innovative 3D camera technology. This however, is expected to change in the coming months and year as OEMs integrate the technology into new devices. Intel RealSense offers depth-sensing capabilities and immersive experiences that lets you take 3D selfies, scan objects in 3D, print in 3D and easily manipulate backgrounds in video chats (on-the-fly).
Wires: So yesterday
Intel continues to push its vision of “no wires” – with Intel WiDi or Pro WiDi. Its initiatives to push for wider, mass adoption of wireless charging continues with support from ODMs/OEMs. Let’s hope we see that wireless charging table soon!
Intel X Windows: Match-made in heaven
6th Gen Intel Core is the perfect platform to experience the best Windows 10 features like Cortana and Windows Hello. The Intel-Windows 10 combination delivers the best performance and user experience to consumers.
When used with devices built-in with Intel RealSense Camera and Windows Hello, users can securely log in using facial recognition. True Key by Intel Security lets you say goodbye to passwords forever.
Bruce Howe, Microsoft Malaysia said, “We’re proud to have partnered with Intel, who has optimise their 6th Gen Intel Core processors to best run with Windows 10. We look forward to see our partners leverage the unique value proposition this collaboration offers wit new, more powerful and secure devices, for both consumers and businesses.”
Wait, there’s more
In the coming months, Intel plans to roll out more than 48 processors in the 6th Gen Intel Core family featuring Intel Iris and Iris Pro graphics. The Intel Xeon E3-1500M processor family for mobile workstations as well as 6th Gen Intel vPro processors for business and enterprises are also coming.
Intel will also be offering more than 25 products for Internet of Things (IoT) that will feature up to 7-year long-life supply and error correcting code (ECC) at multiple TDP levels.
It’s going to be an exciting year or so ahead.