Asus to Expand Mini PC Lineup Following Intel’s NUC Exit
Asus is set to take over Intel’s NUC Mini PC line, offering a glimpse into its plans for the brand. The Taiwanese company aims to provide greater customization options to cater to diverse customers and use cases.
Breaking Away from Traditional Form Factors
Unlike Intel’s traditional form factors, Asus plans to expand its offerings to accommodate various roles. The company will sell NUCs for industrial and integrated applications to both consumers and businesses. However, Asus will use Intel’s NUC license as the foundation for a new line of custom machines that utilize ultra-small motherboards.
Enhanced Customization and Flexibility
Asus aims to meet specific requests from industrial clients by adjusting the number of I/O modules in a device. Additionally, the company may deviate from Intel’s typical four-by-four-inch form factor to provide customers with more flexibility.
Commercial and Gaming Applications
Asus envisions various commercial uses for its NUCs, including powering human interface devices like digital signage boards, self-service kiosks, warehouse controls, and point-of-sale machines. Each NUC will be designed to adapt to its unique physical environment.
While Asus has not provided extensive details about gaming-focused machines, it is considering the idea. Intel previously offered gaming-centric NUCs, such as the Raptor Canyon 13 Extreme, which can integrate an i9-13900K and a GeForce RTX 4070 Ti in a 13 x 15 x 5-inch chassis.
Exploring Edge Computing Potential
Asus NUC devices could also find a niche in edge computing, providing the necessary processing power for hyper-scale AI functions.
Intel’s NUC Exit and Partnership with Asus
Intel announced the end of its NUC business in July and will ship its final products in September. The decision was likely driven by cost-cutting measures amid declining PC sales and a challenging quarter earlier this year.
Shortly after Intel’s divestment, Asus announced its agreement to design and sell NUCs on behalf of Intel. The Taiwanese manufacturer’s existing Mini PC business makes it an ideal partner, although the agreement is not exclusive, leaving room for other companies to potentially license the NUC brand.
Availability
The first Asus NUCs are expected to start shipping by the end of this year, with a more likely arrival in early 2024.