''Intel confirming existence of Intel X86-64 chip''

A report on Inverstor's Business Daily has quoted an Intel representative, which seemed to be confirming the existence of an Intel X86-64 chip.

Intel spokesman Robert Manetta says the Santa Clara, Calif.-based chipmaker has a working prototype of a 64-bit x86 design that it could bring to market "when customers request it."

In early 2001, Intel began shipping the first of its Itaniums, called the IA-64. It sells Itanium to makers of high-end machines such as network servers, workstations and supercomputers.

Without a 64-bit x86 chip, Intel is without a PC product that could match the AMD Athlon 64, a good seller for AMD.

As a result, rumors have swirled around Intel the past year that a 64-bit x86 chip is in the works.

Though it's the x86 expert, Intel would need time to ramp up to make the chip and the things that go with it, such as circuit boards and chipsets. "The transition, if it happened, would take time," said Intel's Manetta.

Source: The Inquirer