We've heard from a very reliable source that Nvidia is expecting that Intel will give them a license for the new QuickPath Interconnect, which will replace the current Direct Media Interface used in today's Intel chipsets due to extensive changes in Intel's CPU design in the upcoming Nehalem core. 

Nvidia is currently using HyperTransport for communication between its chipsets, even on the Intel platform, but the chipset to CPU inteface will change with Nehalem, as Intel is moving to an integrated memory controller. Currently, Intel hasn't licensed the QuickPath Interconnect to Nvidia or any other motherboard chipset manufacturer. 

Nvidia is sure that Intel will give them a license, as if they won't, then Nvidia is considering suing Intel over graphics patent infringements that they claim Intel has done. We don't have the full details, but the only thing we can tell from this is that the Nvidia and Intel battle is heating up.

Nvidia isn't the first company to think that they would get a license from Intel; just look at what happened to VIA. We're not saying this is what will happen to Nvidia, but it could very well be that Nvidia's days as an Intel chipset manufacturer are coming to an end, but it's early as yet, as Nehalem isn't launching until Q4 this year and then only in limited quantities.