Four big tech companies announced earnings after the closing bell on Thursday, with Intel (Nasdaq: INTC) standing out with revenue of $13.9 billion for the quarter. Intel may have enjoyed growth across every line of business in 2011, but the real challenge for the tech titan will be its battle with ARM Holdings (Nasdaq: ARMH) in the year ahead. 

Intel dominates the PC business, which has helped it gain traction in emerging markets. As PC's become more affordable, people in developing nations are better able to buy them -- boosting sales for companies such as Intel. While these trends should continue to drive growth for the chipmaker, Intel faces greater hurdles in its battle for control of the mobile market.   

Looking ahead
Chips for smartphones and tablets threaten Intel's hold on the computer market as the line between PC's and mobile devices blurs. Competition should really heat up for Intel later this year when chip developers running on ARM technology bring to market chips able to power Window's newest operating system on tablets and laptops. Until now, Windows predominantly has run on Intel-based processors.

In the past, Intel has lost countless mobile deals to chipmakers licensing technology from ARM. However, Intel is giving ARM something to worry about as well. After years of failed attempts, Intel will finally see its chips used in smartphones.

Motorola Mobility (NYSE: MMI), along with Lenovo, has signed multi-device deals with the tech titan. The push into handheld devices puts Intel in direct competition with ARM. But to really see how this plays out for Intel, we'll have to wait until the second half of 2012, when Motorola is expected to deliver its first Intel-equipped device.   

Whether Intel can beat ARM at its own game has yet to be seen. However, it's refreshing to see Intel making meaningful steps toward growth in the mobility market. For now, ARM has a clear lead over Intel in the market for mobile computers. You can track Intel and ARM for free by adding them to My Watchlist -- The Motley Fool's free tool that brings you all the news and commentary on your favorite stocks.

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