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Intel has released details regarding the launch of their new entry-level notebook platform, Shelton. Based around the “Diamondville” core CPU, the platform focuses on very low power usage and long battery life, with an aggregate power consumption of a mere 8W. In a typical configuration with integrated graphics, the hope is for low-cost laptops that can easily achieve 4 hours of battery life.

The notebooks will be competing with other low-cost entries, most notable the Asus Eee PC, with a price point beginning at $300. Intel is late to the game, though, with initial availability in the third quarter of this year. Given that Asus is already preparing the second generation of the Eee, Intel has their work cut out for them. They are, however, planning a dual core version of the low-power Diamondville core for later in the year.