Release of Core 2 duo chip drives channel speculation about pricing

Channel speculation over the introduction of uniform pricing on Intel’s product range increased last week following the release of the vendor’s Core 2 duo chip.

Despite Intel’s refusal to neither confirm nor deny the speculation, CRN understands that a handful of distributors have already received briefings hinting at a potential harmonisation of prices.

Sukh Ryat, vice-president of distributor Avnet, told CRN that although uniform pricing would bring advantages for the channel, it could still be some time before any official announcement is made.

“Intel would like to strengthen its channel,” he said. “If it did implement uniform pricing then that would help. Such a move would also allow Intel to combat the likes of Dell, which can only be good news for the channel.”

Intel declined to comment.