Intel is planning to cut desktop CPU prices in the third quarter this year, along with the launch of more quad-core and dual-core models, according to reports. We will see the introduction of the following 45nm CPUs, with prices listed in thousand-unit tray quantities:

- Core 2 Quad Q9650, a 3GHz Yorkfield-based 45nm CPU with 12MiB L2 cache and 1,333MHz FSB - $530

- Core 2 Quad Q9400, a 2.66GHz Yorkfield-based 45nm CPU with 6MiB L2 cache and 1,333MHz FSB - $266

- Core 2 Duo E8600, a 3.33GHz Wolfdale-based 45nm CPU with 6MiB L2 cache and 1,333MHz FSB - $266

- Core 2 Duo E7300, a 2.66GHz Wolfdale-based 45nm CPU with 3MiB L2 cache and 1,066MHz FSB - $133

The existing Core 2 Quad Q9550 will drop in price from $530 to around $316 and the Core 2 Quad Q6600 will drop from $224 to around $203.

Intel's Core 2 Duo E8500 and Core 2 Duo E8400 will drop from $266 to $183 and $183 to $163, respectively. The entry-level Core 2 Duo E7200 will fall from $133 to $113.

It is also believed that Intel will drop two 45nm parts from its product line-up, the Core 2 Quad Q9450 and Q9300, as well as the 65nm Q6700, leaving the Q6600 as its last remaining 65nm quad-core part.