Intel 32nm Atom Netbook CPU Appears On Roadmap

Word of a 32nm Intel Atom processor has emerged, courtesy of a report by UBS Securities.  The roadmap shows a chip platform under the codename Medfield, set to launch in 2010, with onboard graphics and other I/O functionality currently handled by the chipset.  Both single and dual-core versions are tipped, and the report suggests that netbooks will evolve "from from basic web page consumption to multimedia consumption including high-definition (HD) video", although it's unclear if this is general speculation or based on Intel's expectations for Medfield.

Current Intel Atom processors are built using 45nm technology, and have a separate graphics core and I/O chipset.  They're due to be replaced in 2009 by Pineview processors, which will integrate the memory controller and aspects of the system logic chipset.  Pineview is based on the Lincroft System on Chip (SoC), which will form a double-act with the Langwell I/O chip; Medfield appears to be a combination of Lincroft and Langwell.

Meanwhile, according to the UBS report, Intel will continue to use PowerVR-based graphics technology from Imagination Technologies for its Lincroft-based MIDs, prioritizing its power efficiency.  This would allow it to compete with ARM-based devices until the 32nm Midfield chipset launches.

[via RegHardware]