REVENUE STRATEGY - INTEL

Intel is seeking the product differentiation route to revenue:

1. Its engineers in conjunction with Ziba Design in Portland, Ore., have created the world's thinnest notebook. It is also one of the lightest small-sized portable computers. Other features include always-on Internet connectivity via various wireless technologies. Embedded chips let users access cellular, Wi-Fi, or WiMax wireless broadband networks.
2. The device might rely on Intel chips not just for computing but also for memory and connecting to wireless networks. The prototype also incorporates technologies developed by companies like E Ink and Fortemedia financed by Intel Capital, the chipmaker's venture capital arm.
3. The computer comes with a diary-like folder that attaches to the laptop via magnets. The folder, available in different colors, also functions as a wireless charger for the device. One side features a screen made that can display a picture, the calendar, or your schedule for the day. It includes so-called small array microphones to cancel out background noise, often experienced by fans of Web-calling applications like eBay's Skype. The computer also is built to enhance security, boasting a fingerprint reader and a mechanism that lets users kill a hard drive by remote control.
4. It is using materials aimed to communicate high quality and coolness. Made of champagne-colored magnesium, the laptop is decorated with subtle gold accents. As a fashion accessory it may carry particular appeal to women, because they are often the decision makers, particularly with high-end purchases. But Intel wants to ensure the laptop appeals to a wide range of users.
5. Price was not a concern during development.
6. Manufacture may begin later this year and may not include all these features.

Someone at sometime long ago is said to have said that if automobile engineering were compared with computers we would have Rolls Royces in the size of match boxes at an equivalent price. He would now be compelled to shift his allusion to aircraft carriers and designer buttons, perhaps.

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