Silicon Madness reports Intel researchers are working on a more energy efficient processor prototype that automatically tunes itself based on various parameters like clockspeed, temperature and voltage.

By using some of die space, Intel's engineers are able to do way with some of the methods used today in processor binning. Intel will still choose the best silicon for more expensive processors but it can now do so without that incurring a power and frequency penalty due to the safety margins required. The processor will also automatically adjust itself when the user provides better cooling to the system, readjusting itself as needed when temperatures get warmer during the summer, without any need of user intervention.