News & Reviews:   Intel Malaysia

Looks like Huawei laptops will continue to work smoothly for users as both Microsoft and Intel confirm that they will be continuing their updates and support for the Chinese manufacturer. Both companies will be providing security updates for Huawei’s devices that come with Windows 10 and Intel processors. 

If you thought Google cutting business ties with Huawei wasn’t brutal enough, Qualcomm and Intel have now hopped on the bandwagon as well. The two companies will be cutting chip supplies to the Chinese manufacturer under orders by the Trump administration.

As we head on into 4K content creation, Intel have announced their processors that will power this new generation of AR (Augmented Reality) and VR (Virtual Reality) creators with their 7th Generation Intel Core processors based on the Kaby Lake architecture. Utilizing the previous 6th Generation 14nm fabrication process it improves and delivers 15x better 4K content creation and 3x better battery life with 4K content usage.

Intel Malaysia and Microsoft Malaysia today (12 November 2015) have announced a joint collaboration together in an effort to encourage Malaysians to fully utilize the full potential of Windows 10 devices and functionalities, which are powered by the latest 6th Generation Intel Core processors processors to help their work and life be more conveniently efficient. 

Using the theme “Make Magic. Every Day”, the campaign’s purpose is to reach out to Malaysians and introduce the functions in Windows 10 through a series of instore and online promotions, as well as the engagement of local influencers; popular YouTuber and beatboxer, Shawn Lee, social entrepreneur Christopher Tock and Sabrina Tajudin, co-founder of Breena Beauty and leading fashion blogger. 

Dell has announced a new line-up of notebook and desktop personal computers for their Dell Inspiron, XPS and Vostro series today at their Dell Product Showcase. Featuring the new 6th Generation Intel Core processors based on the Skylake microarchitecture optimized for Microsoft Windows 10 the various personal computers include the Dell XPS 13 and Dell XPS 15 which feature the virtually borderless InfintyEdge Display and a premium carbon fiber and machined aluminum chassis. New devices in the Inspiron series include the Inspiron 24 7000 and 3000 series All-in-ones, Inspiron 7000 series 2-in-1 convertible and Inspiron 7000 and 5000 series laptops for every type of computing consumer. The Inspiron 24 7000 Series All-in-one desktop in particular features the Intel RealSense 3D camera with a 23.8-inch display and ultra-slim form factor. The Vostro series saw the new Vostro 14 5000 Series which is the thinnest 14-inch Vostro laptop for SMBs and professionals to date. All of the Dell devices will be available (if they aren't already) on the Dell site and authorized retail stores with Malaysia release dates and pricing as follows:

• Dell XPS 15 ~ mid-October from RM8499
• Dell XPS 13 ~ from RM4999
• Dell Inspiron 24 7000 Series All-in-One ~ from RM5499
• Dell Inspiron 24 3000 Series All-in-One ~ from RM3399
• Dell Inspiron 15 7000 Series 2-in-One ~ from RM3899
• Dell Inspiron 13 7000 Series 2-in-One ~ from RM2899
• Dell Inspiron 15 7000 Series ~ mid-October from RM3999
• Dell Inspiron 15 5000 Series ~ from RM2699
• Dell Inspiron 14 5000 Series ~ from RM2699
• Dell Vostro 14 5000 Series ~ mid-October from RM2299

Intel Malaysia recently held their Intel Malaysia Intel Architecture Makers' Open Day in Penang, showcasing the growing community of inventors or Makers in Malaysia using Intel technology like the Intel Galileo board to make inventions of their own. The exhibition saw various projects and inventions including a home-made 3D Printer, an Intel Edison based traffic light system, home automation and more with makers ranging from the young to the mature, proving that age is not an issue when it comes to making something awesome. The Intel Malaysia Intel Architecture Makers' Open Day is just one of the various projects that Intel Malaysia are running to spur on growth and interest in technology. Other initiatives that include Intel Galileo K-12 workshops for primary and secondary school students along with Intel Galileo boards and curriculum for universities. Check out the projects and what Intel Malaysia had to say about it below:

“Since the invention of the wheel, inventors all over the world have constantly strived to create new and better ways to solve the world’s problems. Today, at Intel Malaysia, we celebrate the work of our local inventors. I’m proud to say that we have very talented people in our midst, and from what they’ve shown us today, I have bright hopes about what our future is going to be like!” Christopher Kelly, General Manager Malaysia Design Centre, Intel Malaysia

Intel continues it's march into mobile devices with the official launch of the JOI Phone 5 smartphone and JOI 7 Lite tablet today. The JOI range of devices comes courtesy of local Malaysian company SNS Networks, with the two new devices joining their current line of JOI tablets. The two new devices will be using Intel's new Intel Atom x3-C3130 processor (SoFIA 3G) which integrates 3G connectivity, improving performance and reducing costs. The JOI Phone 5 features a 5-inch IPS HD display, (1280 x 720 pixel resolution) and 3G connectivity for RM399. The JOI 7 Lite on the other hand, features a 7-inch IPS display (1024 x 600 pixel resolution), 3G connectivity and call and SMS capabilities for RM299. Both come with stock Android 4.4 and suport dual SIM dual active slots. Both are also available now at all SNS Networks stores, selected AEON departmental stores, authorized distributors and online channels. Check out our hands-on pictures and tech specs in this article.

Intel recently launched their #WorkFromHappyPlace campaign in conjunction with Intel-powered devices like the HP Stream 8 tablet and HP Pavilion x2 2in1 convertible. The campaign aims to restore work-life balance, redefine productivity and reinvigorate creativity in the workplace. Utilizing the latest Intel Atom processors, the two HP devices are designed to allow work and play regardless of location with both devices coming with free one-year subscription to Microsoft Office 365 Personal. The HP Stream 8 tablet is priced at RM847 while the HP Pavilion x2 2in1 convertible goes for RM1377. Both should be available at authorized resellers and distributors and there is also a contest for the campaign where you describe your dream place to do work. For more information regarding these devices and the Intel #WorkFromHappyPlace campaign do check out workfrommyhappyplace.com.my. Here's what Intel had to say about it:

“For over 50 years, Intel has been refining microprocessor technology to the beat of Moore’s Law. These microprocessors power the continuing evolution of computing devices - from massive data centers and sleek 2in1 devices to smartphones and tablets. Thanks to the close cooperation we here share with customers like HP, we have been able to offer these innovations to consumers. With Moore's Law celebrating its 50th year anniversary this year, Intel is committed to driving the evolution of the PC with our partners to provide devices that’ll keep up with your every need. Encompassing a wide range of form factor, tasks you wish to complete or how you use your machine - Intel® processors are engineered for performance at every price point, for every need.” Karen Chow, Head of MNC and Telco, Intel Malaysia and Singapore.

TechNave.com recently had the opportunity to interview Intel Rockstars at the recent Intel Intelligent Generations showcase in Penang. These Rockstars included the design team from Intel Malaysia responsible for the Intel Compute Stick and 5th Generation Intel Core processors along with the Intel Singapore team in charge of the Intel Atom X3. According to these Intel Rockstars, the Intel Compute Stick was initially created on the theme of miniturization, trying to see how small they could make an effective x86 based machine. Powered by an Intel Atom processor, the Compute Stick plugs into any HDMI-ready display or HDTV and turns it into a desktop PC. While there are still no plans for an Intel Core M powered Compute Stick or one with a discrete graphic card (we asked, they said not yet) they are open to suggestions, with coming Compute Stick devices perhaps offering other options instead.

Regarding the Intel Atom X3 processor formerly known as SoFIA, the Intel Singapore team revealed that they have already been provided to manufacturers. This jives with rumours about the upcoming Intel Atom X3 powered ASUS ZenPad. However, they did admit that these processors have been provided earlier to China-brand manufacturers partly because of China's larger tech ecosystem and market and also as a testing ground for other markets. As such, we should see other Intel Atom X3 powered devices within 2015. What does this mean for normal consumers? Well, considering that the Intel Atom X3 packs in built-in 3G/4G LTE connectivity at lower price points it could mean more affordable tablets and smartphones in the near future. So if you're looking to buy an Intel powered tablet we'd recommend waiting for a while first. We shouldn't have to wait too long though as this next wave of Intel Atom X3 powered devices are expected in the next couple of months.

Intel recently held their Intelligent Generations showcase in Penang displaying the recent achievements and products from Intel including the newly launched Intel Compute Stick, Intel Atom X3 processors and 5th Generation Intel Core processors and their relevant devices. TechNave were thankfully on hand to cover all of this with the main event being the launch for the Intel Compute Stick. Designed to be a portable x86 Windows 8.1 desktop you can bring in your pocket, the lightweight Compute Stick plugs into any HDMI port for display or HDTV and turns it into a fully fledged desktop PC. A demo of the device showed that it could load large Microsoft PowerPoint files with as fast a performance as standard desktops and play games like Minecraft.

Granted, you may have to use Bluetooth enabled keyboards and mice to control it, but the Compute Stick brings a new device form factor to the current computing environment. Priced at RM599 for the Windows 8.1 version it will be made available sometime in June 2015 or afterwards. An Ubuntu (a Linux based operating system) powered version is also expected for RM499. At this price point we can see this being used as the family or living room PC especially for those who already have a HDTV or HDMI ready display. Intel envisions even more use-case scenarios including digital signage, education and more. Check out the full tech specs and features in this article.