The Sandy Bridge CPUs are based on Intel's 32nm micro-architecture, and are the first to put both the processor, memory controller, and graphics on the same die. While not good enough to eliminate discrete graphics for all, Intel claims, and reviews seem to show, that the new HD 2000 and 3000 processor graphics provide twice the performance of prior Capella-based systems.
The new CPUs differ in naming from the prior Core i3, i5, and i7 versions: as opposed to the 3 number versioning, they now have four numbers (example, Core i7-720QM vs. Core i7-2920XM). Quad-core i7 CPUs will be the first to ship, most likely hitting this week, with dual-core versions shipping in February, and ultra-low voltage (ULV) versions to be introduced in the the second half of this year.
While that may cover most os what interests the general public, there's more news for those who hate DRM. In addition to moving the processor, memory controller, and graphics onto the same die, the new Sandy Bridge CPUs will also move DRM there as well.
This is definitely a move that studios will approve of, and Thomas Gewecke, president of Warner Bros. Digital Distribution, said,
"The new Intel technology is a fundamental change for us [...] it creates a fundamentally more secure platform in the PC environment."It does open a door for Intel with Hollywood, but it also opens a door for AMD with those who are anti-DRM.
As the Inquirer said, As with Intel's earlier, aborted scheme to put a serial number in every CPU chip, it is possible that consumers will refuse to buy the chips because of the DRM lock-down.It's unlikely that this will matter to most people, but there are some who might think twice about it. That said, more security for content is what Hollywood wants, and this might mean more content available online. It's a double-edged sword, and time will tell.
