As expected, Intel’s press conference was all about Sandy Bridge. The second generation Core i3/i5/i7 lineup includes over 20 dual- and quad-core models, all built on a 32nm process. Some of the new CPU features include:
- QuickSync Video: Incredibly fast conversion of video for portable media players, online sharing, and video editing and authoring
- InTru 3D: Supports stereoscopic 3D Blu-ray playback over an HDMI 1.4 connection
- Next-generation Intel Wi-Di: Wireless Display supports up to 1080P resolutions
Of course the usual suspects from the previous generation are present: HyperThreading, TuboBoost, Virtualization, and integrated DDR3 support.
The quad-core models will be available on January 9th, with the dual-core models following in February.
Warner Bros. was also on hand to talk about their new HD streaming service which currently will only work with Sandy Bridge CPUs. Why? The built-in DRM support on the new CPUs. That’s right, folks—if you want to see Warner Bros.’ movies streamed in HD, you’ll have to have a Sandy Bridge CPU. Hooray for us!
One of the highlights of the press conference involved Gabe Newell coming up on stage to talk about Portal 2 (!). Gabe spoke briefly about Sandy Bridge and the game (to be released in April unless Valve Time kicks in again,) followed by a live demonstration with the Razer Six Sense controller. ShakyCam video is below.
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