We already know what Intel has in store for their new Ivy Bridge desktop lineup, but now we’re getting a look into exactly what they have planned for their mobile CPU lineup as well. Documents leaked by VR-Zone indicate that Intel will do away with the Low Voltage processors rated at 25W and instead adopt Ultra Low Voltage processors rated at 17W known as as Ultra or U-series CPUs. The new standard voltage processors, known as the “M-series”, will be introduced as well and rated at 35, 45, and 55W variants.
The new M-Series or standard voltage processors will range from 2.6GHz dual-core i5 to a 2.9Ghz quad-core i7. Most of these processors mark a significant jump over current Sandy Bridge models, and the 3820QM and 3720QM i7 CPUs a 400MHz increase in comparison to the original Sandy Bridge CPUs. These are also the processors which will most likely find their way into a MacBook Pro, opposed to the U-Series lineup (detailed below), which could replace current Sandy Bridge low voltage CPUs in devices like the MacBook Air. Before we break down the U-Series models, here’s the full M-Series lineup:
2.9GHz Core i7-3920XM “Extreme” (200MHz faster than current Core i7-2960XM)
2.7GHz Quad-Core i7-3820QM
2.6GHz Quad-Core i7-3720QM
2.9GH Dual-Core i7-3520M
2.8 GHz Core i5 3360M
2.6 GHz Core i5 3320M
As for the Ultra or U-Series product line, which will more than likely debut in MacBook Air-like devices, at launch Intel plans on making a 2GHz core i7 and a 1.8GHz core i5. The i7 will be able to turbo to 3GHz in dual core mode, while single core mode will get you 3.2GHz. The i5, on the other hand, will provide 2.6GHz in dual core mode, and 2.8GHz in single core mode. Here’s what we know about release dates, DDR3 memory support, multiple external displays, and supported graphics…
Unlike Sandy Bridge processors, all of the new dual-cores support DDR3 memory at 1600MHz (vs 1333MHz), while all of the new mobile CPUs interestingly have a higher maximum graphics clocks than their Ivy Bridge desktop counterparts. All of the new CPUs will also support Intel HD Graphics 4000 architecture. Also noteworthy is the fact the processors will support three displays (including the device’s internal display), meaning multiple external displays on a future MacBook Air would be possible. When it comes to when these CPUs might become available to OEMs, you can see from the images that the quad-core offerings are slated for April, while the others are listed for a May launch. We’ll keep posted as more becomes available.
