Change is brewing in Intel's processor line. DigiTimes has learned from its usual sources at motherboard makers that the CPU giant intends to cut prices and reshuffle its CPU lineup next quarter. The changes will see faster dual- and quad-core chips emerge, although Intel supposedly won't challenge AMD's quad-core Phenoms with speedier 45nm Core 2 Quads.
DigiTimes says Intel will introduce a 3GHz Core 2 Quad Q9650 priced at $530, drop the 2.83GHz Q9550 from $530 to $316, and replace the $316 Q9450 with a $266 Q9400 model clocked at the same 2.66GHz. The 2.4GHz Core 2 Quad Q6600 will dip from $224 to $203, and Intel will reportedly discontinue the 2.5GHz Q9300 (currently priced at $266).
AMD may not have to deal with 45nm Core 2 Quads on its home turf, but it could have tough competition from Intel's refreshed Core 2 Duo line. Indeed, DigiTimes claims Intel will roll out a 3.33GHz Core 2 Duo E8600 at $266, take the 3.16GHz E8500 from $266 to just $183, and squeeze the 3GHz E8400 to $163. Under $150, Intel will add a 2.66GHz Core 2 Duo E7300 at $133 and push the E7200 from $133 to $113.
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