In a move that may surprise some Apple watchers, reliable sources tell AppleInsider the Mac maker has contracted the design duties for its next-generation Power Mac motherboard over to industry heavyweight Intel Corp.
read more...... http://www.appleinsider.com/article.php?id=1431
source:appleinsider.com
it's obvious isn't it? Since Apple is switching to use Intel's proccessor, they need to make some sort of changes to their motherboard system and it's better to get the processor's manufacturer to design the motherboard. Just my 2 cents though, I'm not really into Hardware and stuff, actually you guys can call me n0oob 
:P
nooob!!!!
- just kidding..
I have never been satisfied with the Intel boards.. I hope they'll do a better job this time..
They have some decent performance, but they're just plain ass ugly... 
I mean look @ the mobos of g5's - now those are sexy
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