In addition to introducing a few new models, Q3 will see Intel updating its dual-core processor line-up with the move to the E-0 stepping. The 'victims' of the stepping change will be the Xeon 3110, Core 2 Duo E8400 and E8500. The E-0's changes include:

- New SSpec and MM numbers
- CPUID will change from 0x10676 to 0x1067A
- Power Status Indicator (PSI) is supported
- PECI implementation change
- New instructions added - XSAVE/XRSTOR
- New ISA extension for save/restoring context of x87, SSE, and future processor state
- New feature added - ACNT2
- Improved mechanism for determining processor utilization. To be used for more efficient P-state determination.
- Package change to Halide free package

The E-0 processors will not require any BIOS updates but, in able to use the Power state Indicator (PSI) the board will need new circuits.