Intel decided to accelerate the continuing phasing-out of NetBurst-based processors from Mobility sector by expanding the share of Pentium M-based CPUs and introducing low-cost Celeron processors based on the code-named Banias core in the first quarter 2004. Earlier the company indicated plans to launch Celeron processors made using 90nm technology in the second quarter.

According to current plans, Intel Celeron processors based on the Pentium M architecture will come in the Q1 next year with speed of 1.30GHz. In the Q2, Intel will release 1.40GHz Celeron chip on Pentium M architecture and later in 2004, the semiconductor giant will launch Intel Celeron processors based on the 90nm fabrication process.

All the 0.13 micron Celeron processors with Pentium M core will feature 512KB of L2 cache and 400MHz Quad Pumped Bus. If previous plans were reported correctly, then the Celeron chips made using 90nm technology will feature 1MB of L2, 400MHz PSB and its clock-speeds will start from 1.40 – 1.50GHz.

With the introduction of Celeron processors based on the Pentium M technology, we should expect low-priced Intel Centrino notebooks to appear. This will boost the demand for WLAN-equipment as well as for Pentium M-supporting core-logic products and components.