Intel adds Sonoma and Napa to mobile roadmap

Intel has showcased the next two generations of its notebook platforms, and revealed how it intends to extend battery life in the future.

The first platform, codenamed Sonoma, will be Intel's last design with a single processor core, and is due in the first quarter of next year.

Sonoma will feature a new Pentium M processor with a 533MHz front-side bus and Intel's integrated graphics chipset, codenamed Alviso. It will include 802.12a, b and g Wi-Fi capability.

"We have 125 manufacturers currently planning around the new design," said Anand Chandrasekher, general manager for Intel's mobile platforms group.

"That compares to under 40 for the launch of the Centrino platform. It's a huge improvement."

The second of the forthcoming Centrino mobile technology products is a new platform, codenamed Napa, which will include a dual-core processor, codenamed Yonah, manufactured using Intel's latest 65nm production process.

It will be built on the company's new Calistoga chipset and a new wireless component called Golan, expected to include WiMax capability.

Cisco, Checkpoint and Nortel are all working with Intel to provide users with a 'hands free' virtual private network for more secure internet connection.

Scandinavian company TeliaSonera will be providing Wi-Fi roaming capabilities.

Chandrasekher also revealed efforts to improve battery technology to give eight hours working time between recharges by 2010 using two new technologies.

Lithium polymer batteries using improved anode and cathode materials, and improved internal design, should give twice the current power charge.

Meanwhile a new zinc alkaline battery offers similar battery life with the added bonus of being environmentally friendly.

Chandrasekher said that both technologies will pay off in three to five years.