Laptop changes coming in 2012

Laptop computer sales may be set to rebound in 2012, as the long-awaited Ultrabook™ and a number of other new developments make their mark on the slumping market.

According to technology news provider PCWorld, Ultrabooks will be the big story in the laptop market in 2012. Industry observers expect anywhere from 30 to 50 Ultrabook models to be introduced at the Consumer Electronics Shows in January, which could very well spark a renewed interest in laptop technology.

Beyond the Ultrabook, PCWorld expects new processors from Intel® and the new version of Microsoft's Windows® to make a splash in the laptop PC market. Intel's Ivy Bridge will replace the current generation of Core™ i5 and i7 CPUs, boasting better graphics and a longer battery life.

Windows 8 will traverse technologies, operating on both tablet computers and traditional PCs. While many expect the software to have a greater impact on Microsoft's tablet business, the introduction of a tiled interface should weigh significantly on PCs as well.

Research firm IHS iSuppli estimates that 240 million laptops will ship in 2012. While traditional laptop sales are expected to slip, the strong anticipated Ultrabook sales will lead to growth in the overall market.