The mobile processors, to be used in notebook PCs, will be launched with the new versions of desktop microprocessors in Athlon and Duron. The new processors are currently codenamed `Palomino' and `Morgan' for the Athlon and Duron series respectively. However, the speed and other specifications of these processors have not been disclosed by the company so far.

Apart from new launches, AMD has also decided to phase out its existing value segment micrprocessor series, AMD K6 2+. This is the oldest series of microprocessor in desktop as well as mobile space currently available in the market.

AMD to enter top-end notebook segment by Summer 2001 While talking to The Financial Express, the product marketing manager of AMD, Far East, Mr Wee Yep Yin said that AMD K6 2+ processors are sixth generation technology processors which have now been upgraded by seventh generation technology processors, Duron in the value segment. The K6 processors will not be availble in the market after some time, he added.

Speaking about the new initiative in performance mobile processors, Mr Yin said that this is the first time AMD will be launching its mobile processor in the performance segment. "So far, we have been shipping mobile processors only in value segment under the K6 2+ series which will now be replaced by Duron series mobile procesors," he added.

AMD is currently offering three series of microprocessors for desktops: Athlon, Duron and K6 2+. While Athlon series is targetted to the performance desktop segment and high priced, Duron and K6 2+ series cater to the value desktop segment and are low priced.

Mr Yin said that AMD is very bullish about Indian market and will be working agressively in developing and extending its user base in the current year. AMD has announced the launch of its new processor, Duron 850 MHz in India. The processor was launched in US in mid-January this year.

The new processor is priced at $149 per unit when bought in bulk of 1000 units. "The processor which will be available with integrated graphics chipset, will appeal to Indian users who believe in value for money and are looking for a good computing experience," said Mr Yin.