AP reports that IBM has unveiled a less expensive version of its top-of-the-line z9 mainframe in hopes of expanding the market for its mainframe line to smaller companies, particularly in the fast-growing Chinese market. From the article:

While IBM’s top-of-the-line z9 mainframes cost $1 million and up — for banks, government agencies and other big organizations to handle complex computing tasks — the new “Business Class” of the z9 will be aimed at smaller companies, with a starting price of $100,000.

IBM chose to launch the new mainframe at an event in China because the company believes that market has the kinds of fast-growing companies that could use mainframe-level power without having millions to invest in the machines.

With low-end “blades” and other inexpensive servers becoming increasingly powerful, IBM has been working to keep mainframes attractive by expanding the ways customers can use the machines.

Full article: IBM Unveils ‘Business Class’ Mainframe

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