In a move that would essentially blur the differentiation between notebook and netbook, chip giant Intel Monday welcomed the so-called “Ultra Thin Era” with the launch of new ultra-thin notebook processors Core i3, Core i5 and Core i7, boasting ultra-low voltage.

The new processors are aimed at a new class of mobile computers, with power and performance comparable to a full-size notebook; and having the size, weight, and battery life of the more-economical netbook.

In a statement pertaining to the release of the new processors, Mooly Eden, VP and general manager of Intel’s PC Client Group, said: “Intel's leadership in 32nm high-k metal gate process technology, combined with breakthrough architecture and design has enabled thinner, lighter and faster notebooks than previous models, with terrific battery life.”

Though there has been no official disclosure about the pricing for the new ultra-thin, ultra-low voltage processors, Intel has already listed them as “launched” and available for ordering and sampling on the company’s product Website.

The line of Intel’s ultra-low voltage consumer notebook CPUs include: Core i7-660UM; Core i5-540UM; Core i5-430UM; Core i3-330UM; Pentium U5400; and Celeron U3400.

The incorporation of the new chips also results in nearly 20 percent less battery consumption for the new hardware, vis-à-vis the standard-voltage counterparts; as well as making the notebooks almost 30 percent thinner than standard-sized mobile PCs.