Intel unveils Core Ultra processors, revolutionizing AI capabilities in mobile and edge computing
Over 230 AI PCs from top brands launched, leveraging Intel's AI acceleration across CPU, GPU, and NPU
Intel's AI-driven PCs projected to dominate 80% of the market by 2028, signifying a major shift in computing trends
After first teasing it earlier this year, Intel has finally revealed its highly anticipated lineup of AI-based processors, spanning data centers, cloud networks, edge devices, and personal computers. Among these, the Intel Core Ultra processors represent a substantial leap in power efficiency and AI capabilities for personal computing. Unveiled at the “AI Everywhere” event, these processors promise a redefined performance and AI experience for mobile platforms and edge devices.
Also read: Get ready for the On-Device AI boom in 2024 and beyond
During the event, Intel CEO Pat Gelsinger underscored the profound impact of AI innovation on the global economy, projecting its potential to contribute up to one-third of the global gross domestic product. “AI innovation is poised to raise the digital economy’s impact up to as much as one-third of global gross domestic product,” remarked Gelsinger during the keynote. He emphasized Intel’s commitment to developing technologies seamlessly integrating AI across applications, whether in the cloud or increasingly at the local PC and edge levels.
Intel’s mission to democratize AI
Gelsinger further elaborated on Intel’s mission to democratize AI through meticulously engineered platforms, secure solutions, and robust support for open ecosystems. This commitment reflects Intel’s initiative to usher in the era of the AI PC with the launch of Intel Core Ultra, alongside the introduction of AI-accelerated 5th Gen Xeon for enterprise applications, fortifying Intel’s AI portfolio.
Codenamed ‘Meteor Lake’, the all-new Intel Core Ultra processors are built on the Intel 4 process technology, and integrate Foveros 3D advanced packaging technology, representing a significant architectural leap for Intel after four decades. Leveraging Performance-core (P-core) architecture, they enhance instructions per cycle (IPC), resulting in a notable up to 11% increase in CPU compute performance for ultrathin PCs, surpassing competitors in this realm.
Also read: Intel 14th Gen Core desktop processors launched: Up to 24 Cores and 6 GHz out of the box
The launch also unveiled over 230 AI PCs from diverse partners such as Acer, ASUS, Dell, Dynabook, Gigabyte, Google Chromebook, HP, Lenovo, LG, Microsoft Surface, MSI, and Samsung. Michelle Johnston Holthaus, Intel’s Executive Vice President and General Manager of Client Computing Group, highlighted Intel’s rapid AI integration, projecting AI-driven PCs to dominate 80% of the market by 2028.
The Intel Core Ultra processors integrate AI acceleration across CPU, GPU, and NPU architectures, positioning them as Intel’s most powerful and energy-efficient client processors. To complement these processors, Intel has collaborated with over 100 independent software vendors (ISVs) and introduced more than 300 AI-accelerated features in an attempt to get a firm edge in the on-device AI space.
Built on Intel 4 process technology, these processors incorporate Foveros 3D advanced packaging, marking Intel’s most significant architectural shift in four decades. With Performance-core (P-core) architecture enhancing instructions per cycle (IPC), the processors deliver up to 11% higher CPU compute performance for ultrathin PCs compared to competitors. Additionally, the Intel Core Ultra boasts an Intel Arc GPU with up to eight X e -cores, AI-based X e Super Sampling (X e SS) and double the graphics performance of its predecessors. This GPU supports modern graphics features such as hardware-accelerated ray tracing, mesh shading, and AV1 encode and decode.
Moreover, the new NPU, branded Intel AI Boost, specializes in handling extended AI workloads at low power, contributing to a 2.5x improvement in power efficiency compared to the previous generation. These processors offer up to 16 cores, 22 threads, up to 5.1 gigahertz (GHz) maximum turbo frequency, and support for up to 96 GB DDR5 maximum memory capacity. Leading wireless technologies like integrated Intel® Wi-Fi 6E and support for discrete Intel® Wi-Fi 7 (5 Gig) are incorporated, while Thunderbolt 4 connectivity provides speeds of 40 gigabits per second (Gbps).
Also read: From silicon to cloud: CEO Pat Gelsinger shares Intel’s vision of AI everywhere
The latest Intel Evo Edition Powered by Intel Core Ultra laptops promises enhanced performance, extended battery life, and a seamless multi-device experience through Intel Unison. These laptops guarantee cooler, quieter performance, and a minimum of 10+ hours of real-world battery life. The introduction of Intel Core Ultra processors signifies a significant leap in AI-powered computing, setting a high bar for AI-integrated systems. As the industry anticipates AMD’s response with its AI-equipped processors, Intel’s strides in on-device AI are expected to intensify competition, fueling further innovations in AI-driven computing.
Follow Us
Soham Raninga
Soham Raninga is the Chief Editor for Digit.in. A proponent of performance > features. Soham's tryst with tech started way back in Dec 1997, when he almost destroyed his computer, trying to make the Quake II demo run at >30FPS View Full Profile
