First hybrid graphic notebooks surface

By: Velimir Biošić

GPU or IGP? Why not both?

Notebook PC makers and users desire the realism and performance of a discrete graphics processing unit (GPU), but they still demand maximum battery life. Now Sony, Fujitsu Siemens, and BenQ have announced the availability of notebooks that let users dynamically switch between a discrete NVIDIA GeForce GPU and Intel Centrino 2 integrated graphics without rebooting, giving users the choice of more visual computing performance or reducing power demands to extend battery life.
All GeForce 9M Series GPUs support the hybrid graphics feature, but the notebook must be designed to support the technology. The hybrid graphics feature is currently available in the following new notebook models:

• Sony VAIO Z series ultra-light laptops with GeForce 9300M GS GPUs
• Fujitsu Siemens Amilo XI 3650 entertainment laptops with GeForce 9600M GT GPUs
• BenQ Joybook S42 ultra-light laptops with GeForce 9600M GT GPUs