Dual-core and 64-bit chips

The two major computer chip makers--AMD and Intel--now each have dual-core chips and native 64-bit chips and 32/64-bit hybrid chips. This didn't cause the ground to shake, but just be patient, because the days of single-core, 32-bit obsolescence are inevitable. On the multi-core front, companies like Sun Microsystems are already talking about four- and eight-core systems--how long before someone at AMD and Intel leaks an R&D memo about a 128-bit project? It will take a while before companies write mainstream software to exploit the faster and more flexible hardware. There are some interesting related advances as well, such as cooling methods, multithreading and virtualization. On the business side, Intel still has a huge lead in overall PC and server chip market share over AMD, but AMD is steadily making gains. AMD is also continuing its courtroom fight against the ways in which Intel establishes its pricing and partnerships.