Will Ultrabooks dominate the notebook market?

The technology industry is a fickle thing. When tablet computers first entered the market in 2010, many industry observers questioned whether people would get on board with yet another computing device. Nearly two years later, tablets have become a staple in the technology industry, and now many are wondering whether traditional notebook computers can stay relevant in the wake of the new mobile device on the block.

One sign of hope is the Ultrabook™, a new take on the notebook computer that stresses portability as well as functionality and may be key to keeping people interested in traditional laptop PCs.

Similar to the tablet, the Ultrabook is lightweight and slender, able to fit easily into a backpack, purse or briefcase. It also features a physical keyboard, like a traditional laptop, meaning users are afforded a level of familiarity with the device.

However, the technology isn't simply an amalgamation between the tablet and laptop. Each Ultrabook is based on a specially designed processor from Intel® that boasts performance as well as energy efficiency. Additionally, upcoming models are expected to include capabilities not commonly featured on either tablets or laptops, such as near-field communication technology.

Intel says it expects the Ultrabook to account for 40 percent of consumer laptop sales in 2012. If this proves to be true, the Ultrabook could be poised to dominate the notebook market for some time.