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Intel VP sees industry splitting into premium and mainstream sockets as mainstream PC demand weakens
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Intel VP Robert Hallock says the PC industry will likely split into premium and mainstream sockets if high component costs persist.
This signals a future where desktop platforms diverge sharply in cost and upgradeability, forcing engineers to design for two distinct tiers. Mainstream buyers may get cheaper, less expandable systems while enthusiasts pay a premium for high-end sockets, affecting long-term hardware choices and software optimization targets.
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Hallock describes the PC market as a 'tale of two kingdoms' with mainstream 'taking a beating' while enthusiast and premium segments remain relatively strong.
He suggests an industry-wide split into premium and mainstream sockets to control costs, stressing it is not just Intel but 'everybody' in the desktop space.
Intel's client business revenue rose 13% year-over-year due to higher average selling prices, not increased unit sales, because of cost inflation passed to customers.
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