In an utterly modest manner, Intel has officially informed the public about switching its i815 and i815EP chipsets from the current A2 step to B0. The importance of this endeavor is well described in a single phrase, taken from a corresponding official document: ««The Intel 82815 B0 step is enhanced to support current and future Intel Socket 370 processors». Obviously, «future Intel Socket 370 processors» stands for the new 0.13-micron Pentium III, Tualatin, which is due in Q3 2001. New chipsets will be pin compatible with their predecessors, so mainboards manufacturers won’t have to take much trouble introducing changes to their i815 products.
The first samples of i815 B0 are to become available for manufacturers after April 13. Mass shipments, in their turn, will take place after May 15.