Intel plans to bring low-cost laptops to Europe, U.S.

Intel Corp., which is backing a low-cost laptop for educating children in developing countries, plans to bring the computer to the U.S. and Europe.

The Classmate PC design, an attempt to put a $250 laptop in the hands of students in places such as India, Indonesia and Brazil, will appear on European and U.S. retail shelves later this year, said Agnes Kwan, a spokeswoman for the Santa Clara, Calif.-based company.

Intel, the world's largest computer-chip maker, is counting on the devices to open up new markets for its processors. The company expects the Classmates to be bought as second machines by families in developed countries. While designed by Intel, the Classmate is built and sold by personal-computer makers.

In the 18 months since Intel began the Classmate project, tens of thousands have been shipped in more than 30 countries in government-backed programs, Kwan said.

New versions of the machine for sale in Europe and the U.S. may cost as much as $350 to make, Kwan said. The retail price may be higher, especially after software and more powerful components are added.