Intel brings the Compute Stick, its most powerful PC-on-a-stick, to U.S. consumers.
It features a better and higher performing Core M3-6Y30 processor, along with 4 GB RAM and 64 GB of internal storage.
Intel touts the new Compute Stick as having roughly three times the graphics performance and processing power of an earlier model that features an Atom x5-Z8300 Cherry Trail processor. It also noted the huge improvements of the new PC stick over an older model with an Atom Z3735F processor.
"The Intel Compute Stick is a tiny device the size of a pack of gum that can transform any HDMI TV or display into a complete computer," says Intel. "But it's what's inside that's really incredible: an Intel Core M processor — with blazing fast speed that gives you performance for work, play, or both — and lets you upgrade to a world of new experience."
The new Core M version comes equipped with a trio of full-sized USB ports. One port is found on the PC stick itself while the other two are nestled on the power adapter. Other impressive features include Intel HD graphics, integrated Intel 802.11ac wireless, Bluetooth 4.2, a microSDXC card reader and Windows 10 OS (STK2M3W64CC).
The new Intel Compute Stick also has models that come with no operating system. One of them runs on a Core M5-6Y57 vPro processor, which, according to Intel, allows users to have safer data and networks.
"The Intel Compute Stick with the Intel Core m5 vPro processor is ideal for thin client, embedded, healthcare, or digital kiosks where data security, reliability and remote manageability are crucial," adds Intel. "The Compute Stick makes it easy to stay productive whether you're working in a patient room, collaborating in a conference room, or moving from desk to desk in the workplace.
Intel added that the M5 vPro model is built with hardware-enhanced security that promises to keep all data encrypted with 256-bt Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) and that all data is expected to stay within the user's network.
Measuring at only 4.5 x 1.5 x 0.5 inches, the new Intel Compute Stick makes a portable desktop PC designed with powerful features. Apart from Windows 10, it also works compatibly with Chromium OS, Ubuntu 16.04 Beta 2 and Ubuntu 14.04.3.
The new Intel Compute Stick is available for purchase at CDW, where the version with no OS installed is priced at $317. The Windows 10 version is available at Amazon and B&H where it retails at $385 and $389 respectively.
