Intel Corp. has decided to postpone the release of its central processing units (CPUs) with built-in graphics core to 2010 because of the "customer feedback", according to a slide from a roadmap of the chipmaker published by a web-site.

“Intel remains committed to delivering stable, high quality, industry leading platforms on a predictable cadence. Based on 2008 client platform learnings and customer feedback, we have realigned our features and schedules for 2009 mainstream Nehalem chips,” a statement published on a slide that resembles a slide from Intel’s roadmap, reads. The slide was revealed by HKEPC web-site.

Originally planned to be released in 2009, code-named Auburndale processor for mobile computers and Havendale chip for desktop PCs (both based on Nehalem micro-architecture) are now scheduled to be launched in early 2010, based on the information from the slide. The delay is hardly critical for Intel in terms of revenue, but since those chips greatly simplify the company’s production process, it is strange that Intel decided to delay such products.

Currently Intel produces both processors and chipsets to serve the vast majority of Intel-based platforms. CPUs and core-logic (with or without integrated graphics) sets are made using different process technologies, e.g., microprocessors are produced using 45nm tech, whereas chipsets are manufactured utilizing 65nm fabrication process. Theoretically, producing highly integrated CPUs with memory controller and graphics core inside could improve overall manufacturing efficiency, provided that there are no production constraints on fabs capable of making the products.

It is obvious that with a large amount of Intel Core 2 Duo and Intel Core 2 Quad chips along with compatible core-logic sets on the market Intel may not be interested in promoting a completely different platform. Nevertheless, the delay may affect certain projects of Intel.

Intel’s Havendale processor is multi-chip module (MCM) in LGA1160 form-factor containing Nehalem micro-architecture-based dual-core CPU as well as graphics and memory controller hub (GMCH) that features dual-channel DDR3 memory controller, PCI Express 2.0 x16 interface to connect add-on graphics cards as well as integrated graphics core. It is projected that both chips on the MCM are made using 45nm process technology.

Competing code-named Fusion/Swift microprocessors from Advanced Micro Devices, which also feature integrated graphics engine are also expected to be launched in late 2009 or early 2010.

Intel did not comment on the news-story.

Tags: Intel, Nehalem, Auburndale, Havendale, 45nm, AMD, Fusion