Intel introduces its quad-core processor family with the announcement of the Intel Core 2 Extreme processor QX6800. It runs at 2.93 GHz and it's ideal for gamers, digital design professionals and enthusiasts, says Intel.

Flight Simulator X has entered the quad-core era, increasing multicore utilization. The Intel Core 2 Extreme processor QX6800 is also  being embraced by media users and developers. Adobe, Cakewalk, DivX, Sony Creative Software are some developers which have delivered applications that use all four cores. For example, the Intel Core 2 Extreme quad-core processor QX6800 is up to 65% faster than the Intel Core 2 Extreme dual-core processor X6800 on video encoding.

The QX6800 is produced on 65 nanometer process, key to enabling the large 8 megabyte cache. A 1066 MHz system bus is supported and the processor is available now at a cost of USD 1,199.