Intel dropped the big bomb today as they formally unveiled the Core 2 Duo processor as the new brand name for their upcoming processor families for desktop and laptop computers, expected to first start shipping shortly.

The new Core 2 Duo processors are based on the newly designed Intel Core microarchitecture and will include two processing cores — or brains — per chip. Intel said they will also call their highest performing processor for enthusiast and gamers the Intel Core 2 Extreme processor. Intel added that these processors will “deliver higher-performing, yet more energy-efficient processors that will spur more capable, stylish, silent and smaller mobile and desktop PCs while saving on electricity usage”.