Previously codenamed Montevina, the launch of Intel's next-gen Centrino 2 notebook platform has finally arrived. Intel originally planned to launch back in May, but due to some problems that plagued the IGP and some supposed certification issues with the Federal Communications Commission, they were forced to hold off a bit longer. Even so, the IGP equipped models are still delayed, with today bringing us Centrino 2 systems that rely on discrete graphics from NVIDIA or ATI.

Some of the highlights of Centrino 2 are support for DDR3 memory, 45nm Penryn CPUs (running from 2.4 to 2.8GHz), 802.11n and WiMAX. At the moment there are only dual-core processor options available, but quad-core has been confirmed to arrive for Centrino 2 in the not too distant future.

Intel stated they are initially aiming Centrino 2 towards the business-class and enterprise segments, but this doesn't stop partners mixing things up and making their models more attractive/better catered to the enthusiast/gaming crowds.

OCZ are an example of this; the company has announced today that they're offering Centrino 2 and Core 2 Extreme as a base for DIY builders.

Coverage on Centrino 2 can be found at Legit Reviews, PC Perspective, Hot Hardware and ComputerShopper.