Intel Signals Desktop Socket Split as Mainstream PC Sales Collapse Under Rising Costs

Intel $INTC warns rising component costs are forcing a split between mainstream and enthusiast PC sockets. Intel reported client revenue rose 13% year-over-year strictly from higher selling prices rather than higher unit volume. Mainstream PC hardware sales are taking a beating while premium buyer demand remains steady. Chipmakers may permanently separate desktop platforms into distinct mainstream and enthusiast motherboard sockets to control costs. "You're going to have to make some concessions in your product stack, and that's purely to control costs and give people an option that they can actually afford." — Robert Hallock