Intel prepares new chips, warns of weak Q3

Intel will tout a new generation of processors this week that consume less power, hoping to reinvigorate a stagnant personal computer industry and soothe increasing concerns about its growth.

The top chipmaker is banking on Microsoft's much anticipated launch of its Windows 8 platform in October to help slow the growing numbers of consumers buying smartphones and tablets instead of personal computers.

Intel on Friday slashed its third-quarter outlook, expecting a revised $US13.2 billion in revenue compared to the $US13.8 billion to $US14.8 billion range it had previously forecast. It blamed weak global demand for PCs as customers flock to smartphones and tablets.

Intel shares dropped 3.2 percent to $US24.29 when the market opened Friday morning.

New chips bring hope

At Intel's Developer Forum starting this week, the company's next-generation PC processor, codenamed Haswell, will be front and centre, with executives talking up improved power performance letting future laptops stay on longer without needing a recharge.

Haswell, due to appear in a crop of laptops released for next year's holiday season, will improve on computing and graphics features and is targeted to slash electricity consumption from 17 watts to 10 watts, according to Intel.

Intel is also expected to show off a range of ultrabook laptops powered by recently launched Ivy Bridge processors, as well as hybrid devices with screens that detach from keyboards to be used as tablets.