Intel officially launches 22nm Ivy Bridge processors, will likely add improved A/V, USB 3.0, more to future Macs

Intel officially launches 22nm Ivy Bridge processors, will likely add improved A/V, USB 3.0, more to future Macs:

After months of talking about its features, Intel officially launches its new Ivy Bridge processor today. As we previously reported, this processor is undoubtedly headed to the next line of Macs and will help provide some significant feature updates. The processor is a 22-nanometer 3D transistor chip which will be more efficient that the bigger Sandy Bridge processors it replaces. It is initially available in 13 quad-core models, in both the i5 and i7 versions. According to Intel, lower end i3 and i5 models will launch later this Spring.
One big thing to note here is the Ivy Bridge also features on-chip USB 3.0 – a technology Apple has been rumored to adopt for quite some time. While it is still possible that Apple may not choose to take that route, the likelihood of Apple using the now built-in USB 3.0 tech has grown exponentially.
An Intel VP told the crowd at the Intel Developer Forum earlier this month that the Ivy Bridge Processor is built for Retina display computers, “if OEMs choose to use it.” This is especially interesting because Apple is rumored to include a Retina-like display, thanks to a slew of hints in the developer preview of Mountain Lion. Retina would be a game changer on the displays of Apple’s Pro/Air.  Intel’s new 4000 chipset supports up to 4k resolution natively and also supports improved audio and security functions that Apple may or may not choose to take advantage of.
With the official launch of the Ivy Bridge processor, the launch of new Macs doesn’t appear to be that far off. The new processor will most likely be found throughout the whole Mac line, including the MacBook Air, iMac, Mini and MacBook Pro.

In a recent 9to5mac poll, 76% of you indicated you’re waiting for Apple to release updated Macs to make a purchase. Does that include you?

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