Intel dropped prices of some quad-core desktop processors on Sunday as it gets ready to launch processors based on the new Nehalem chip architecture.

The price cuts come ahead of Intel’s plans to launch new quad-core chips code-named Lynnfield later this year, perhaps as early as September. Lynnfield chips are based on Intel’s latest Nehalem microarchitecture, which cuts down on performance bottlenecks that plague its current chips. Nehalem chips are also able to execute more tasks while drawing less power.An Intel official last week said that Lynnfield chips were on track for production in the second half of 2009, but didn’t provide an exact shipment date. The company released Core i7 chips based on Nehalem for high-end desktops late last year, but those chips go into workstations and specialist systems built for enthusiasts like gamers.

Intel also plans to release quad-core laptop chips for laptops code-named Clarksfield at the same time as Lynnfield’s release. However, the price for mobile chips remained stable over the monthly pricing cycle, according to Intel’s price list. (continuare…)

Inside sources again claim that Apple has a tablet ready to release “in time for the holidays,” and will be partnering with Verizon to provide mobile data services and possible subsidies, though those details have apparently not been worked out. This new rumor seems to confirm rumors from earlier this year that Verizon would be carrying an Apple “media pad,” as well as reports earlier this month that Chinese suppliers had already received orders for parts to produce the device in time for a possible October launch.

According to sources for The Street, Apple has been working on the tablet for about two years. Working prototypes have supposedly existed for almost a year, which would lend credence to a fall launch window. Verizon is expected to subsidize at least some of the rumored $800 price, though because the device will be data-only, subsidies may be much less than those for the iPhone—which also involves lucrative monthly voice and texting plans. (continuare…)