Core 2 Duo laptops hit the streets

Built in the same case as the G35-AV600 we reviewed earlier this year, the Toshiba Qosmio G35-AV660's upgrades include a 2GHz Core 2 Duo T7200 processor, two 120GB hard drives, and 2GB of faster 667MHz RAM. Other new features with this refresh: the receiver for the included Media Center remote is now built into the case, and Toshiba is preloading the system with custom DVD software to maximize the laptop's HD-DVD drive. Suggested retail price for the Qosmio G35-AV660 is $3,499.

With the exception of the ultraportable NX100X/E-100M models, Gateway is offering Core 2 Duo processors across its home and business notebook lines, including the M255-E we reviewed.

Dell has included the processors in all three laptops in its XPS line; see our review of the Core 2 Duo XPS M1710.

And finally, Alienware has updated its 15-inch and 17-inch Area 51 laptops as well as its 14-inch Sentia m3450 with the new processors. Look for our review of the Area 51 m5550 this week.

We expect more Core 2 Duo systems from other major vendors to be announced in the coming weeks, so stay tuned for details.