Intel is taking some heat over a delay of Windows 8 tablets that are apparently stuck in quality control testing at Microsoft.
Rumor has it that there are still driver issues related to the Atom Z2760 processor. Microsoft is mum on the issue, while our Intel sources deny that drivers are at fault. Instead the company is pointing at "isolated vendor issues".
However, we know that Windows 8 tablets are launching much later than previously anticipated and they are already heavily discounted. Dell's Latitude 10 will not be available until January 22 - instead of a targeted launch date of December 2012 - and consumers can currently order the base model for $649, down from a "market value price" of $927. The high-end model with HSPA+ mini card will sell for $849, down from $1,212. The Windows RT version, the XPS 10, is still selling for $499, $599,, $679, and $779, without any offered discounts.
HP's convertible tablet Envy x2 11t-g000 is also delayed with an anticipated ship date of January 9. The device is priced at $850 (without HSPA+). HP is not offering discounts at this time.
Wolfgang Gruener is an experienced professional in digital strategy and content, specializing in web strategy, content architecture, user experience, and applying AI in content operations within the insurtech industry. His previous roles include Director, Digital Strategy and Content Experience at American Eagle, Managing Editor at TG Daily, and contributing to publications like Tom's Guide and Tom's Hardware.
