Intel unveiled the second generation versions of its Core i3, Core i5 and Core i7 processors on Monday ahead of this week’s Consumer Electronics Show. The processor line up, code named Sandy Bridge, was designed so computer makers could build thinner and lighter all-in-one computers and laptops, and includes 29 different processors.
The Sandy Bridge processors use a 32nm manufacturing process, and include the processor, memory controller and graphics on a single die. Intel claims the new chips run cooler, but offer faster overall performance and substantially faster graphics performance.
The chips include Intel Insider, which offers HD video streaming support from several content providers, Quick Sync Video, which offers faster video transfer from your computer to iPods and other media playback devices, and an updated version of Intel Wireless Display for playing computer content on HDTVs.
Computers using the new chips will be released throughout the year, and since Apple relies on the i3, i5 and i7 processors in its MacBook and iMac lineup, there’s a good chance Mac fans will get a taste of these chips, too.