Intel is set to launch its new Haswell Refresh processors and 9-series chipsets for desktops in early May, postponing the CPU giant's original schedule from April, according to sources from motherboard players.

　　Intel originally planned to release the CPUs in April and then distribute the chipsets in May, but after feedback from motherboard clients and channel retail partners, Intel decided to delay the CPU launch and release the two together in May.

　　Motherboard players including Asustek Computer and Gigabyte Technology have already geared up to release new products. Asustek shipped five million motherboards and Gigabyte 5.2 million in the first quarter, and with Haswell Refresh and the 9-series, market watchers expect their shipments to grow 10% sequentially in the second quarter.

　　In additional news, Asustek shipped 20.7 million motherboards and Gigabyte 20.5 million in 2013.