Intel to unveil 64-bit processors for Desktop Computers

Microprocessor giant Intel is expected to launch its range of 64-bit processors for the desktop computers today. This would be first such offering from the stables of Intel as its prime competitor AMD took the initiative in the market with their Athlon 64 processors. Even though the processors are available in the market since quite sometime… it would take a little while before applications that take use of these advance technologies (for PC Platform) would appear in the market.

Current generation of chips are developed with 32-bit architecture and the new chips would theoretically double the processing capabilities of the data. In addition, it would be more useful for performance demanding applications like video editing and game playing.

Apple already have got 64-bit processors and operating system in the form of Mac OS. However, Windows platform still lacks a 64-bit supported operating system. Microsoft promises to release their version of windows optimized for these processors in the current year itself.

AMD took the initiative by releasing processors capable of processing at 64-bit way back in September 2003. Intel dominates the processor market with around 80% market share, which has led to delays in the mass level development and launch of applications optimized for these processors. Intel achieved the 64-bit capability by adding extensions to 32-bit chips that allow them to access greater portions of memory.