News for Tuesday, 24 July 2007

If the next Xeon revision will only be an evolution of the current models (based on Penryn), Intel decided to release details about the next generation of Xeon, codenamed Nehalem.
This CPU should be released in the second half of 2008 and will sport numerous technology improvements compared to Penryn-based Xeon. Xeon Nehalem will be true quad core CPU and not two dual core associated on the same die. Cores will not only share their cache memory, but the entire cache system. Among other features:

- Leverages 4-issue Intel Core micro architecture technology
- Simultaneous multithreading (SMT)
- Multi-level shared cache architecture
- Performance-enhanced dynamic power management
- Fully unlocks Intel 45nm Hi-K silicon process benefits

As mentioned, multithreading support is back, but it will have little to do with the original HyperThreading found on the Pentium 4 architecture. If fact, SMT will fully unveiled its capabilities with the Nehalem, as HyperThreading was just an implementation of SMT. SMT will allow an eight physical cores-based computer to feature 16 logical cores.
In addition, Intel unveiled details concerning the chipset architecture which will be associated to the Nehalem and known as Tylersburg which will be available in 3 variants: EN for entry servers, WS for workstations and EP for efficient performance servers. It will also sport the QuickPath technology, Intel's new uniform bus previously known as Common System Interface, which resembles AMD HyperTransport. It should dramatically speed up communication between components.
First Nehalem and Tylersburg should not appear before one year, and Intel will probably release additional information in a near future. Apple might then use Tylersburg WS for Mac Pro and Tylersburg EP for Xserve.

Apple is currently offering 16% discount of current MacBook models via the Refurb Stores.

The high-end black model 2.16 GHz: 1229€
The mid range white model 2.16 GHz: 1059€
The entry level white model 2.0 GHz: 889€

Probably due to the lack of LED-based backlighting for MBP, Apple does not offer important discount on older models, making them less interesting than those MacBook. It remains unclear if Apple is clearing stock of MacBooks before introducing new Santa Rosa-based MacBook in august or September, or if it is simply to be more competitive price-wise before school/college/university notebook purchasing period.
The shortest way to the Refurb Store near you: @ Refurb Store

No, this is not the number of purchased iPhone, as it has already been achieved in less than one week. iPhone sale numbers will be unveiled tomorrow.
Yes, Microsoft celebrated the millionth Zune, but for sure it would have expected to reach this milestone earlier; for sure the Zune does not come as a strong competitor for the iPod. But Redmond's giant does not give up and announced the availability of Zune 2 for the end of the year. Microsoft did not provide many details, beside the fact that it will feature new functions making it more fun and user-friendly. In addition, those new capabilities will be also available on the first Zune thanks to a firmware update.
Such backward upgrading is a good idea for consumers as it makes the investment a more secure one than a 6-8 month life cycle iPod and maybe Apple should take it into account.

To expend its success with the scrolling wheels "Revolution" mouse, Logitech released a notebook-dedicated model of its high-end device.

As its desktop-dedicated sister, it features an intelligent scrolling wheel and a laser-based tracking while providing a long battery lifetime in a nicely packed design. The size of the transmitter is dramatically reduced, and one can probably leave it plugged in the USB port without any risk of damaging it. Such a well designed product has a price: US$ 79.99.

The 85 W MagSafe dedicated to MacBook Pro was known for its rather unusual large size. Yesterday, Apple started offering a new model, significantly smaller (similar size than for MacBook) while delivering the same power:

It will not appear immediately, as the expected shipping date currently indicated on the Apple Store is 3 to 4 weeks. When available in volume, it will become the default power adapter for MacBook Pro.
As a consequence, the previous power adapter model is not available from the European Apple Stores, and one will have to wait for weeks before being able to get one.
This announcement comes strangely couple of days after we reported MagSafe 1G being prone to be damaged and caught into fire.