Intel has quietly begun shipping their 'Haswell Refresh' line of processors, ahead of an expected launch next month. The CPUs are essentially replacing existing 'Haswell' parts, featuring minor updates such as clock speed increases (typically 100 MHz) for no additional cost.
At this stage Intel have launched 44 Haswell Refresh SKUs, 27 of which are desktop parts and 17 for mobile machines. Desktop CPUs range from the new non-K flagship - the 3.6 GHz quad-core Core i7-4790 for $303 - down to the dual-core 2.5 GHz Celeron G1840T for $42. For mobile devices, OEMs will be able to choose from the $378 Core i7-4712MQ to the $75 Celeron 2970M.
If you take a look at the full parts list for Haswell Refresh CPUs Intel has quietly launched you'll notice that the previously announced 'Devil's Canyon' enthusiast parts are yet to make an appearance. These K-series SKUs are set to launch "mid-year", according to Intel, and will feature an improved thermal interface material for better overclocking potential.
All Haswell Refresh CPUs, including Devil's Canyon, support Intel's new 9-series chipsets and the LGA1150 socket. Motherboards with 9-series Z97 Express chipsets aren't available just yet, but are expected to launch in the coming weeks. These boards will also be compatible with Intel's upcoming 'Broadwell' processors, which are set to launch for desktops in early 2015.
Some of the new Haswell Refresh CPUs are available now through Amazon and other retailers, although we'd suggest to perhaps wait until an official launch and wider availability before making a purchase.