Windows 8 Device Touchscreens Start Shipping in Q3 2012

When announcing new ultrabooks, Intel and its partners have promised that the next generation, running Windows 8, will support touch input.

That, of course, means that new touch panels will have to start being manufactured.

According to Digitimes, mass production of touchscreens of 13.3 to 15.6 inches will take off in the third quarter of this year (2012). That's about a month from now, at the earliest.

We don't need to remind people that ultrabooks haven't really become affordable yet (they still sell for $800 / 800 Euro or more). Adding touch support isn't expected to help here either.

Nevertheless, market watchers believe that, only in half a year, demand for touch ultrabooks will reach 25 million panels. They also predict a 30% penetration of the notebook market by touch panels.

Via: Windows 8 Device Touchscreens Start Shipping in Q3 2012