Intel recently announced that it would be discontinuing its compact and upgradable NUC (Next Unit of Computing) computers. However, Asus has come forward to fill the void left by Intel’s exit from this market. The two companies have entered into an agreement, under which Asus will receive a non-exclusive license to Intel’s NUC product designs. This means that Asus will now be responsible for manufacturing and developing future NUC systems.
The decision to discontinue the NUC line came as a surprise to many, considering its popularity among PC builders and gamers. However, Intel has decided to shift its strategy and focus on enabling ecosystem partners like Asus to drive further innovation and growth in the NUC systems market. Sam Gao, the general manager of Intel Client Platform Solutions, emphasized the company’s commitment to ensuring a smooth transition for customers and partners during this shift.
Asus, a renowned manufacturer in the PC industry, is well-positioned to take over the NUC systems business. With the license to Intel’s NUC designs, Asus will not only manufacture and sell existing 10th to 13th Gen NUC systems but also have the opportunity to develop new designs based on Intel’s upcoming chips. This opens up exciting possibilities for future NUC systems that can leverage the latest hardware advancements.
One significant advantage of this agreement is the continuity it offers to NUC system users. Asus will take over support for existing NUC systems, ensuring that customers receive the necessary assistance and service. Additionally, Asus will establish its own Asus NUC business unit, dedicated to furthering the development and promotion of NUC systems.
While Asus has secured a license to Intel’s NUC designs, it’s worth noting that this agreement is non-exclusive. This leaves the door open for Intel to potentially license out the NUC technology to other PC manufacturers in the future. If this happens, it could lead to a broader range of NUC systems from different manufacturers, providing consumers with more options and driving further competition and innovation.
The Intel NUC systems have gained a significant following in the PC building and gaming communities. Despite their popularity, the NUC computers have always been notoriously difficult to buy due to limited availability. However, they have played a crucial role in raising awareness about small form factor PCs and have served as an entry point for many enthusiasts looking to build their own compact computers.
The partnership between Intel and Asus ensures that the NUC systems will continue to be available and developed, much to the delight of PC builders and gamers. With Asus’s expertise and commitment, we can expect exciting advancements in the NUC lineup, delivering enhanced performance, efficiency, and features.
In conclusion, while Intel has decided to discontinue its NUC computers, Asus has stepped in to continue the legacy. With a non-exclusive license to Intel’s NUC product designs, Asus will manufacture and sell existing NUC systems, develop new designs based on Intel’s upcoming chips, and provide support for NUC system users. This agreement ensures that the NUC systems will thrive and evolve, offering PC enthusiasts and gamers the opportunity to build powerful and compact machines. As the licensing arrangement is non-exclusive, we may even see other PC manufacturers entering the NUC market, further expanding the range of options available to consumers. The future of NUC systems looks bright, thanks to this partnership between Intel and Asus.
