Intel released some 4th-Gen Core Ultrabook definition last week and today, following the official launch of 4th-Gen Core (Haswell) and the Computex Keynote (round-up here), Intel have published more information.

Ultrabooks with screen sizes less than 14” need to be 20mm or less. WiDI 4.1 is included on every Ultrabook along with touch, an array mic, 6 hours of HD media playback and security features but surprising to us is the inclusion of Thunderbolt on all Ultrabooks with the 4th-Gen Core.  We’re trying to get clarity on this Thunderbolt requirement (what about models that get a 4th-Gen Core refresh for example?) and we’ll update when we hear back from Intel.

Update: The requirement for Thunderbolt is an error in the PDF. Intel confirmed that in terms of connectivity, at least one USB3.0 is required. Thunderbolt is an option.

The following is a re-formatted copy of the press release available here. (PDF)

Read the full story

Ultrabooks. Copies of the MacBook Air. Expensive laptops. Bringing nothing new to the table. I’ve read it all and discussed it all but knew from day 1 that there would be something special coming. Having followed Atom from day 1 to the point where Moorestown finally got the architecture right I knew what Intel could achieve. Haswell was built with the next generation laptop in mind. It’s HDR-Computing with Connected Standby, some of the best integrated graphics on the market, video engines that can process end-to-end 4K and TDP’s that will allow manufacturers to design PCs you never thought were possible. With Haswell, Ultrabooks get meaning.

Read the full story