Intel Corporation has announced its decision to stop production of Next Unit of Computing (NUC) computers – small form factor PCs. However, the company will encourage its partners to continue manufacturing these mini PCs, reports PCWorld.

Intel’s NUC has been the leader in compact PCs, leaving larger case options to partners like Dell and HP. The decision is in line with Intel’s recent focus on its core business, especially during a period of significant investment in its own manufacturing and foundry businesses.

An Intel representative confirmed the company’s decision, saying that it will continue to support existing NUCs that it has already managed to bring to market. “We have decided to stop direct investment in the Next Unit of Compute (NUC) Business and pivot our strategy to enable our ecosystem partners to continue NUC innovation and growth,” a company representative said in an email.

This decision completes Intel’s nearly decade-long effort to make the NUC a viable PC, opening up new possibilities for the devices. The first generation NUC was equipped with a third-generation Core i3 processor and for many users became the basis for a home theater. In subsequent iterations, Intel aimed to reduce the case even more.

Despite initial success, Intel’s NUC faced competition, and overall the company’s pace of development slowed. So now the development of these mini PCs will be entrusted to Intel’s partners, who will be able to use the company’s own developments and processors.