Intel's next-generation "Nehalem" architecture has a new name: Core i7.

Intel said during a fairly lengthy explanation of the Nehalem architecture in March that the first chips would ship during the fourth quarter.

The current system of using model numbers to provide more information about the chip will continue. The Intel Core i7 processor will be for high-performance desktop PCs with a separate black logo for Intel's highest-end "Extreme Edition," Intel said.

Nehalem will contain two to eight cores, a 4-instruction-wide ISA, and two-way simultaneous multithreading. It will also include QuickPath interconnect, with up to 25 GB per link, and an integrated memory controller, as AMD's own parts include. In addition, there will be a new 8 MB shared level 3 cache.

Expect more updates on Larrabee, Intel's return to graphics, and other chips at the Intel Developer Forum at San Francisco.

[Via PC Magazine]