Intel launched a low-cost PC initiative in India

On May 22, the world's largest microprocessor manufacturing group - Intel announced the initiative to reduce PC prices in India to increase the number of computer users in the world's third-largest economy. .

The statement was made by Intel CEO Paul Otellini before his planned visit to India this week. Accordingly, Intel's initiative will help reduce PC costs by 20% lower than Intel-integrated PCs with the lowest prices with the same configuration sold in India.

Cheap PCs will be available within the next 2 months and will be available to Indian companies such as Wipro Ltd. (WIPR.BO) and Zenith Computers Ltd. (ZENC.BO) hit the market. Intel will also partner with Indian bank ICICI Bank Ltd. (ICBK.BO) to support loans for buyers.

Currently, the cheapest PC in India costs about $ 220. And although the country is well known for software outsourcing, PC coverage is still not really high due to high prices and a shortage of electricity in many areas, mainly in rural areas.

According to experts, Intel's new move may be affected by AMD's $ 1 billion Internet and computer training plan for the next five years for emerging markets. development. It is the "World Ahead" program, which is expected to provide high-speed wireless Internet access (perhaps by satellite) to about 1 billion people who cannot go online due to economic and geographical conditions. .

As for Intel, the company will also work closely with Indian media conglomerate Videsh Sanchar Nigam Ltd. (VSNL.BO) to cover wireless Internet at train stations in this country.

In December 2005, Intel said it invested $ 1 billion in India to boost research and development (R&D) progress to support new companies and media groups. It is known that in the past decade, Intel has invested about $ 700 million in the Indian IT industry.

VH - ( Reuters )