First Intel Ivy Bridge launch expected on April 23

Though the first announcement is just around the corner, rollouts from Apple, HP, Dell, Sony, Toshiba, and others are expected to be staggered.

The first of a series of Ivy Bridge chip announcements is expected on April 23, CNET has learned.

Previously, CNET had been told the launch would happen between April 23 and April 29. Buy today an industry source familiar with Intel's plans said the initial rollout will happen on April 23.

Ivy Bridge is the first in a series of upcoming Intel mainstream chips that emphasize graphics and multimedia processing.

Preliminary benchmarks demonstrate the chip's graphics prowess compared to earlier Intel designs.

Ivy Bridge is also the first Intel chip to employ new 3D transistors and the first to support USB 3.0 (in the companion chipset).