According to iSuppli analyst Matthew Wilkins, to get compact products like netbooks and iPads, PC makers are adopting highly integrated semiconductor solutions, using less energy and producing less heat. . By combining the functions of conventional graphics chips, the integrated processor will play an important role in this effort.
Analyst Greg Richardson of Technology Business Research notes that many people are switching to integrated chips as low-power replacements for expensive independent chips. He added that in a slow economy, business buyers and consumers are also more likely to use integrated chips simply because they are cheaper.
ISuppli reports that Intel is benefiting from this shift in the market. iSuppli also said that Intel rival AMD is expected to launch a graphics-capable processor in the fourth quarter or early 2011.