As international vendors will launch many ultrabook models, such models and ultra-like models are expected to account for 20% of consumer notebooks shipped in 2013, much higher than an estimated 5% for 2012, according to Taiwan-based supply chain makers.

China-based Lenovo will launch five 11.6- to 15.6-inch ultrabook models, Hewlett-Packard will launch at least two models, Taiwan-based Acer and Asustek Computer will launch 2-3 ones each in the first half of 2013, the sources indicted.

While Intel expects US$699 to be a critical price level to stimulate strong demand for ultrabooks and many US$699 ultrabook models to be launched in 2013, vendors will launch their flagship ultrabook models featuring unibody metal chassis, SSDs, Li polymer batteries and Windows 8 touch-control screens for sale at about US$1,000 for appeal by brand image in 2013, the sources pointed out. For other market segments, there will be US$699 ultrabooks and more inexpensive ultra-like models which will be equipped with chassis made from fiberglass-reinforced plastics or aluminum with plastic frame, slim-type optical disc drives (ODDs) or ODD/SSD hybrid, conventional Li batteries and non-touch-control screens, the sources indicated.