Intel Unleashes Pentium II 350/400MHz and Celeron Processors: A Game-Changing Move in the Market

Strategic Insights -

Intel has launched two new products in its processor lineup, targeting both high-end and entry-level markets. The Pentium II 350/400MHz builds upon the established Pentium II range, offering improved performance. The company has also introduced high-speed support technology to maximize the new processors' capabilities. In addition, Intel has unveiled the Celeron family of chips, a reduced-function Pentium processor without on-board memory cache, designed for low-end PCs. The Celeron promises to provide sufficient performance for everyday tasks, while its lower price point is expected to put pressure on competitors to cut costs, driving down prices further.

Key Takeaways:

  • Intel has launched the Pentium II 350/400MHz, which offers improved performance compared to its predecessors.
  • The new Pentium II processors come with high-speed support technology to squeeze the last drop of performance out of the new processors.
  • The Celeron is a Pentium processor without on-board memory cache, designed as a low-cost alternative for entry-level PCs.
  • The 266MHz Celeron will provide up to 35% more performance than an older-generation 233MHz Pentium MMX processor.
  • Intel has admitted misreading the demand for low-end PCs and has introduced the Celeron to fill this gap.
  • The Celeron will eventually form a complete family of processors using the Celeron brand name.
  • The new chip is intended for home and low-end business PCs, where its reduced power consumption and lower price point will be beneficial.

Statistics:

  • The 266MHz Celeron will offer up to 35% more performance than an older-generation 233MHz Pentium MMX processor.
  • Intel's new Celeron chip is designed to fill a gap in the market, splitting the low-end PC price range (around Pounds 700).
  • The Celeron is a reduced-function Pentium processor without on-board memory cache.
  • Intel has admitted misreading the demand for low-end PCs, indicating a shift in their market strategy.

Sources:

  • The Times, 1998: "Intel Unleashes a Double-Barrelled Broadside at Competitors"