One point for Intel, zero for AMD.Today, Intel publicly confirmed that the next incarnation of its Celeron processor, due some time in Q2, will feature EM64T -- Intel's implementation of AMD's x86-64 technology. They also dropped a hint that Smithfield (their dual-core Pentium IV) is in production.
Just some time ago, Intel was stating that the desktop had no need for 64-bits. Oh how the tables have turned. It seems that Intel is now pushing for 64-bits on the desktop harder than AMD themselves. AMD's equivalent to Intel's Celeron, Sempron, does not have 64-bits in sight, nor has there been a mention of such an addition in the future.
While the impressiveness-factor of their Pentium IV line is debatable, it would be foolish to argue with the fact that Intel is king when it comes to marketing. AMD has always been a step (or five) behind in this department. In this situation, Intel has made the better decision - adoption of 64-bits is the next hurdle these two companies face, and there is no better way to ease adoption than to provide the new technology in all main-stream product lines. If the Celeron has 64-bits, any average Joe who buys Celerons (and there are many of them) will now be a member of the club.
That Intel is planning to spread EM64T across its desktop CPU families quickly emerged last month courtesy of the latest round of roadmap leaks. However, Spindler's comment marks the first time the company has said as much in public. The roadmaps reveal that Q2 will witness the debut of EM64T-equipped desktop Celerons with model number 326, 331, 336, 341, 346 and 351, clocked at 2.53, 2.66, 2.8, 2.93, 3.06 and 3.2GHz, respectively. It is believed that the Socket 775 parts will replace today's 775-pin Celerons.
AMD needs to step up to the plate, or else Intel will beat them at their own game with their own technology.
Article Link: Intel confirms 64-bit Celeron scheme
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