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Intel, the tech giant known for its CPUs, is set to launch the next generation with a brand new naming scheme. The latest news suggests that the Intel Core Ultra series is expected to replace the familiar “Core i” series, which has been the standard for over a decade. In this article, we’ll look at everything we know so far about Intel Core Ultra and what to expect from the upcoming CPUs.
Update June 15, 2023:
Intel has confirmed that they will rebrand their processor lineup for the upcoming Meteor Lake CPUs. The iconic “i” will be dropped from the product names, and the new lineup will be classified under Core 3, Core 5, Core 7, and Core 9.
In addition to the name change, Intel has introduced a new tiering system for their processors: Mainstream and Premium. The top-of-the-line models (Premium) will be called “Core Ultra,” while the more affordable models will simply be called “Core.” The Core Ultra models will be available in Core 5, Core 7, and Core 9 variants, while the Core 3 models will not be available in a Core Ultra variant.
The new naming scheme is expected to make it easier for consumers to choose the right processor for their needs. We can expect the Core Ultra models will offer the best performance and features, while the Core models will offer a more affordable option.
Example: Processor Numbering
- Intel Core 5 processor ##xx*:
- Intel Core Ultra 7 processor ##xx*
The old story follows…
Meteor Lake CPUs New Naming Scheme: Intel Core Ultra
A tweet from BenchLeaks reveals an upcoming Intel Meteor Lake CPU within the Ashes of The Singularity benchmark database. The CPU is codenamed- Core Ultra 5 1003H, confirming that Intel is moving away from the “Core i” series and towards the “Core Ultra” branding for its next-gen CPUs.
According to Bernard Fernandes, Intel’s Director of Global Communications, the new branding will feature various SKUs and segments to differentiate between different processors. The “Ultra” moniker is just one of them. Other names, such as Core Extreme, Core Max, and Core Pro, could also be used, but it remains to be seen which ones Intel will settle on.
Intel’s decision to change the naming scheme is perhaps part of its strategy to streamline its branding and make it easier for customers to understand the various offerings.
Intel Core Ultra: What to Expect?
The Meteor Lake CPUs are expected to feature a new tiled architecture consisting of four main tiles – IO, SOC, GFX, and Compute. The Compute Tile comprises the CPU Tile and GFX Tile, which will use a new hybrid core design of Redwood Cove P-Cores and Crestmont E-Cores. This design promises higher performance at lower power consumption, translating to better overall performance.
The GPU tile will have a new Xe-LPG core based on the Alchemist architecture. The Meteor Lake CPUs are expected to offer over 50% performance per watt and 2x iGPU gains compared to the previous generation. This means that we will see improved GPU performance with higher efficiency.
Furthermore, the Meteor Lake mobility CPU lineup is expected to feature a triple-hybrid CPU architecture (P/E/LP-E Cores), brand new Redwood Cove (P-Cores), and Crestmont (E-Cores). The H/P series is expected to offer up to 14 cores (6+8), while the U series CPUs will offer up to 12 (4+8).
Specifications and Features
Intel’s Meteor Lake CPUs will be manufactured using the company’s 4 Process Node for the CPU and TSMC for the GPU. The CPUs will support up to LPDDR5X-7467 and DDR5-5200, with up to 96 GB DDR5 and 64 GB LPDDR5X capacities.
The CPUs will also feature an Intel VPU for AI inferencing with Atom Cores, x8 Gen 5 lanes for discrete GPU (only H-series), triple x4 M.2 Gen 4 SSD support, and four Thunderbolt 4 ports.
Intel is expected to ramp up production of its Meteor Lake CPUs in 2H 2023. While the branding scheme for the new CPUs has been confirmed, there is still much we don’t know about the specific SKUs and how they will be differentiated. Stay tuned as more information is revealed over the rest of the year.
