That Intel is planning a 6-core processor model for enthusiasts have been known for some time. We also know that the processor is code-named Gulftown. Several sources (one of the them) have also confirmed that the name of the processor has been set to Core i9. Intel’s current flagship of the Core i7 series will have to step back and let the 32nm Gulftown become King of the Hill.
The processor is not expected to appear until the first half of 2010 but as the first processor of the Westmere family it is an interesting processor in many ways.
Just like Core i7, Core i9 will play with the Intel X58 chipset and LGA1366 socket. Twelve MegaByte L3 cache will help keeping all twelve threads active. The parallel workforce will also be the sign of Core i9 family with its extra cores, what the clock frequencies will be remains to be seen.
