AMD introduced a new Phenom microprocessor, which would be in addition to the quad-core desktop chip that AMD plans to ship this year. The Phenom microprocessors are native multi-core chips, which means the cores are on a single die of silicon.

"With our advanced multi-core architecture, AMD is in a unique position to enable a wider range of premium desktop solutions, providing a smarter choice for customers and end users," Greg White, VP and general manager of AMD's Desktop Division, said in a statement.

AMD's three-core processor contains its Direct Connect Architecture, which had been available only with 64-bit Opteron, Athlon, and Turion chips for servers, desktops, and notebooks, respectively. The DCA is used as an alternative to a front-side bus, which is favored by Intel. In the architecture, the memory controller and I/O are connected directly to the central processing unit, or CPU. AMD claims this results in faster communication speeds, which means a higher performing chip.

In addition, the new three-core product will feature HyperTransport 3.0 technology links, up to 16 Gbps of high bandwidth I/O, and a shared Level 3 cache, which is a third bank of memory on the processor for storing instructions. The processor also takes advantage of AMD's Cool "n" Quite technology, which allows a computer to decrease and increase performance heat levels depending on usage demand, as well as regulate fan speeds.