Intel Agrees to Let Asus Manufacture and Sell NUCs

Asus will take over manufacturing and selling its Intel's Next Unit of Computing (NUC) hardware.

Under the agreement, Asus is granted a non-exclusive license to Intel's NUC designs and will manufacture, sell, and support 10th to 13th generation NUC systems. However, Asus also has the option to develop new NUC system designs in the future, paving the way for 14th generation NUC hardware to appear later this year or early in 2024.

Last week, Intel announced it was halting direct investment in its mini PC business and ceasing production of Intel-branded NUC systems. However, just because Intel is pulling out doesn't mean the legacy won't live on and this Asus deal proves there's still a healthy market for the tiny PCs. And Asus certainly isn't new to this market, having released multiple generations of mini PC systems over the years.

"I am confident that this collaboration will enhance and accelerate our vision for the mini PC – greatly expanding our footprint in areas such as AI and AIoT," says Joe Hsieh, Asus chief operating officer. "We are committed to ensuring the excellent support and service that NUC systems customers expect."

Sam Gao, Intel VP and general manager of Intel Client Platform Solutions, says he's "looking forward to Asus continuing to deliver exceptional products and supporting our NUC systems customers."