Release dates for Intel's next-generation Ivy Bridge processors, which have been delayed from their original first quarter launch, have now been leaked. According to the alleged leak posted to CPU World, some quad-core parts suitable for the iMac and MacBook Pro will be available on April 29, suggesting revised models could be available from Apple in late April or early May.

CPU World reported that several higher-end Ivy Bridge-based quad-core processors in both desktop and mobile flavors are set to launch on April 29, 2012. A couple of the Core i5 and Core i7 desktop processors seem likely candidates for updated iMacs. And two of the mobile processors—Core i7-3720QM and Core i7-3820QM—seem like a good fit for 15" or 17" MacBook Pros.

A number of the lower-end configurations, including lower-wattage desktop Core i5 processors and dual-core mobile processors used in the 13" MacBook Pro, aren't set to ship until June 3. Given the delays on Ivy Bridge, it's possible that Apple may ship some configurations sooner, closer to late April, and follow up with additional models in early June.

However, we consider it more likely that Apple will wait until all the processors necessary for a given product line are available, and then launch them together. Assuming Apple waits, it could mean waiting until June for new MacBook Pros in the least, possibly iMacs, and definitely Mac minis. Lower-power parts would also be beneficial for rumored "slimmer" MacBook Pros, which may eschew an optical drive for a more portable package.

Finally, the 17W low-power dual-core Ivy Bridge processors, which would fit in the MacBook Air, are part of the second batch of parts scheduled for early June. So, those hoping for a 22nm-powered MacBook Air will likely have to wait until then as well.

Regardless of strategy, it's very likely we'll see a blitz of Apple hardware updates right around the beginning of summer. After all, Apple CEO Tim Cook did promise many more product updates this year when speaking at the iPad 3 unveiling on March 7.

As a side note, Sandy Bridge-EP Xeons shipped recently, so we could see a Mac Pro update well before Apple revises its other hardware. There is some speculation that Apple may discontinue the Mac Pro altogether, or it may be waiting on revised Thunderbolt chipsets set to coincide with Ivy Bridge processor releases to update the Mac Pro with Thunderbolt support.

Naturally, Windows and Linux PC users won't have to wait. It's likely that other vendors will have products ready to fill with chips as they become available from Intel and will ship them as soon as possible. Recently announced "ultrabook" models won't likely ship until the 17W parts are available in June, however.