Intel Corp's new Pentium MMX (multimedia extension) processor for mobile computers will be released next week, according to a report by CNET news services.
Codenamed Tillamook, the chip will raise clock speeds for notebooks from 166 MHz to 200 MHz and 233 MHz. A 266 MHz model is due to be released either later this year or early next year.
Tillamook is Intel's first chip made using the cutting-edge .25 micron production process which is used to make fast microprocessors.
Companies to use the new chip include IBM Corp - which will put it in its high-end ThinkPad 770 - and Compaq, which plans to launch a Tillamook-powered 7700 Armada-class notebook.
Industry analysts said notebooks with the chip initially would be priced between US$3,000 and $4,000.