I first saw this on CNET and when I read it fully, I was amazed to find out that Intel has re-written history. It's latest discovery, the Tri-Gate transistors which is more efficient than the previous ones will be used to make future processors much more faster, smaller and energy saving.

It was initially referred to as a 3D technology, The 3D actually symbolises the shape of the transistor. I am not having a big knowledge on its aspects and what does the new changes actually do. But I know that this reduces the size, increases the speed and saves energy much more. Some points I've taken from CNET will be posted in this post.

The traditional flat two-dimensional "planar" gate is replaced with a thin three-dimensional silicon fin that rises up vertically from the silicon substrate.

But its technology wont be available any soon if I'm correct. The technology has just been introduced and Intel has already given a codename to the processors which will be using Tri-Gate transistors as "Ivy Bridge". This means it'll be quitting the 2D transistors and will be working on with the 3D transistors. The processors are expected to be available around 2012.

Ivy Bridge will use 22-nanometer technology versus the 32-nanometer tech currently used on Sandy Bridge. In addition to the merits of 3D transistors described above, moving to a smaller geometries generally results in faster, more power efficient processors.This means faster and much more power efficient processors which can operate at a lower volatge than the previous ones.

Also, the 22nm processor also signifies one more thing. Since it is tinier, it could also be used to power Smartphones and Tablets. It'll be giving a great challenge to the current 32nm chips and this makes the processors ideal for use on handheld devices.