Intel announces Atom mobile platform

Previously known by the codenames "Silverthorn" and "Menlow," Intel's forthcoming mobile CPU and chipset have just gotten official with the respective names "Atom" and "Centrino Atom." As we've known for a while now, both will be aimed at MIDs (Mobile Internet Devices) and UMPCs. The low-voltage Atom CPU will be produced using Intel's 45nm process and will scale up to speeds of 1.8Ghz; Centrino Atom, meanwhile, will combine a single-core Atom CPU with the "Poulsbo" chipset as well as a wireless (WiMAX?) chipset. Clearly, Intel is hoping that the Atom line helps transform the UMPC from a niche device into a standard product category for both business users and mobile consumers. Both Atom and Centrino Atom should be available in devices during the first half of this year.

For more on the new products:
- see this PC World article