Intel Demos Future Ultrabook Designs, 4th Generation Core Processor Family

Intel demoed low power versions of its 4th Generation Intel Core Processor family (Haswell) that should make its way into Apple's next generation of MacBooks. The chips were first previewed in September 2011 and low power chips should be available in late 2013 or 2014, while desktop models are expected this spring.

Intel also announced its intention to promote new Intel-powered touch-enabled Ultrabook devices using these new processors. Intel demonstrated one Ultrabook with a 13-hour battery life and said that these Ultrabooks with touch would start as low as $599, while units with a removable keyboard to convert to a tablet (like the Microsoft Surface) would start at around $799.

The company says the chips will provide a significant increase in both power and battery life and that devices using them should experience "true all-day battery life."

The 4th generation Intel Core processor family enables true all-day battery life -- representing the most significant battery life capability improvement in Intel history. Skaugen disclosed that new systems are expected to deliver up to 9 hours of continuous battery life, freeing people from some of the wires and bulky power bricks typically toted around.

"The 4th generation Core processors are the first Intel chips built from the ground up with the Ultrabook in mind," Skaugen said. "We expect the tremendous advancements in lower-power Core processors, and the significant ramp of touch-based systems will lead to a significant new wave of convertible Ultrabooks and tablets that are thinner, lighter and, at the same time, have the performance required for more human-like interaction such as touch, voice and gesture controls."

Intel has previously said that power efficiency is one of its top priorities in chip design going forward. Versions of these chips will eventually make their way to the MacBook Air, iMac, and the MacBook Pro.