Dual-core Atom chip for netbooks on the horizon?

Intel was rumored for working on dual-core Atom chip for netbooks that are usually considered as low processing power carrying computers.

Recently, Intel CEO Paul Otellini confirmed that Intel will bring dual-core Atom processors for the netbook segment.

Intel already has 1.6GHz Atom 330 microprocessor for the netbooks such as Asus Eee PC 1201N. But these new dual-core Atom processors will have integrated memory controller and integrated graphics.

Otellini said, "I think there will still be significant growth in the netbook business year-over-year. I think that there are rather than pricing, I think, we would look to features and integration as a technical novelty or twist here. The next innovation coming out on Atom is dual-core, which comes out in the second quarter, so that it will ramp for the holiday season this year and I think that will be a very attractive product."

More processing power for the low-cost and light weight netbooks is always welcome, and a natural progression in technology. Intel didn't share more details about these dual-core Atom chips but we can expect netbooks with these chips before year-end at least.