Intel Core 2 Duo processors for desktops will apparently be launched on the 23rd of July, 2006, but the number of models will be relatively limited, just as expected. Initially, Intel will offer four Core 2 Duo processors and one Core 2 Extreme chip, five new chips in total, HKEPC web-site reports. The family of desktop “Conroe” chips with 1066MHz processor system bus will consist of Core 2 models E6700, E6600, E6400 and E6300 that will operate 2.67GHz, 2.40GHz, 2.13GHz and 1.86GHz, respectively. The E6700 and E6600 models will sport 4MB unified L2 cache, whereas the E6400 and E6300 will have 2MB unified level-two cache. Pricing of the parts is claimed to be even more aggressive, than expected previously: $530, $316, $224 and $183 for the E6700, E6600, E6400 and E6300, respectively.
The most advanced member of the Core 2 family will be Intel Core 2 Extreme X6800, which will operate at 2.93GHz, use 1066MHz processor system bus and equipped with 4MB level-two cache. It will cost $999 in 1000-unit quantities and will provide end-users increased performance and some other improvements over typical Core 2 Duo products.