Known until now by its code name "Willamette," the name is hardly a surprise. Intel's Pentium-class chip is one of the most widely recognised brands in the world. Intel always initially names its chips after rivers in Oregon, where it is the state's largest private employer.

Part of its name recognition also stems from a flaw that was found in the earliest Pentium chip in 1994, which eventually prompted the Santa Clara- based chip firm to offer free replacements for any customers who wanted them. That move cost Intel $475 million in charges.

The Pentium 4 will be introduced in the second half of this year and is aimed at offering faster performance, as well as enhanced graphics, video and other capabilities.