In an attempt to tap China and other emerging markets for Android entry-level tablets, Intel will launch Bay Trail-Entry, a CPU platform specifically for use in entry-level tablets soon, according to Taiwan-based supply chain makers.

　　Intel aims to ship 40 million tablet processors in 2014 and shipped five million units in the first quarter, the sources indicated.

　　In order to help vendors and makers adopt Bay Trail-Entry, Intel has offered tablet reference designs based on the platform, including 7-inch models equipped with its Atom Z3735G and 8-inch with the Atom Z3735F, the sources said.

　　In addition, Intel has recommended a list of certified tablet component suppliers including AU Optronics, Innolux, Chunghwa Picture Tubes, BOE Technology and InfoVision Optoelectronics (Kunshan) for panels, OVT, Galaxycore Shanghai and BYD for lens solutions, Samsung Electronics, SK Hynix, Micron Technology, Nanya Technology and Integrated Silicon Solution for memory, Fibocom Wireless, ZTE and Huawei Technologies for 3G/4G modules, Broadcom and Realtek Semiconductor for communication ICs, FocalTech Systems, Goodix and ILI Technology for touch solutions, Kionix, Bosch and AMM for sensors, and Monolithic Power Systems and Texas Instruments for power management, the sources noted.

　　Intel's efforts in tablet processors is to gain market influence rather than to profit, the sources claimed. For entry-level tablets, Intel is expected to face strong competition from MediaTek and China-based IC design houses, and consequently processor prices will drop, the sources indicated.