Intel Unveils Core Ultra Chips with AI Boost, Faster Graphics at CES

After a challenging year, Intel is looking to reclaim its position as a leader in chip innovation with its largest product announcement in recent memory. At CES 2025, the company introduced a new lineup of processors, including the Core Ultra Series 2, designed to deliver better performance, enhanced power efficiency, and advanced AI capabilities.

Highlights of Intel’s New Processor Lineup

Intel’s latest Core processors range from entry-level Core 3 chips for lighter workloads to the high-performance Core Ultra 200H. Here’s an overview of the key features and advancements:

Multiple Power Configurations:

• Low power (35 watts), standard power (65 watts), and high power (125 watts) options.

• Cores range from 14 to 24 across the lineup.

Some models include additional features such as Intel’s latest Wi-Fi 7 technology and integrated memory directly on the chip package.

Core Architecture:

• P-Cores: Performance-focused cores for demanding tasks.

• E-Cores: Architected for energy efficiency.

• Low-Power E-Cores: Ultra-efficient cores optimized for tasks requiring minimal power, ideal for thin and light systems.

AI-Driven Features:

• AI Boost: Built-in AI accelerator technology for enhanced AI processing.

• Neural Processing Unit (NPU): Included in select models (Core Ultra 200V, HX, H, U, and S), with 2x the bandwidth of previous generations, supporting AI tasks in Windows 11 and beyond.

Integrated Graphics:

• Intel Arc with XMX graphics available in flagship Core Ultra 200H chips.

• Lower-end models feature Intel Graphics, but the Core Ultra 200S, Core Ultra 200U, and Core Ultra 200H all come equipped with Intel’s AI accelerator technology, AI Boost, built directly into the chip.

Performance Improvements

Intel emphasized significant performance gains in its new chips:

• The Core Ultra 285, retailing as the Core Ultra 9 processor 285, offers 2.9x better graphics performance compared to its predecessor, the Core i9 14900.

• The Core Ultra 285H, retailing as the Core Ultra 9 processor 285H, is designed for gaming and AI, runs Meta’s Llama 3 8B AI model 3.3x faster than the Core Ultra 9 185H.

Targeted Applications

Intel has tailored its new processors for various use cases:

• Core Ultra 200V, HX, H, U, and S: Best suited for commercial applications.

• Core Ultra 200S: Delivers desktop-level performance.

• Core Ultra 200HX: Optimized for gaming on enthusiast notebooks.

• Core Ultra 200H: Designed for thin and light laptops, combining portability with power.

Enterprise Features

The Core Ultra 200V stands out for its enterprise-focused capabilities:

• Intel vPro Ecosystem: Offers enhanced security, hardware-based threat detection, application optimization, stability, and validation programs.

• Pluton Security Co-Processor: Protects hardware from tampering, acting as a hardware root-of-trust.

Availability

Intel’s latest processors will roll out in stages:

• Core Ultra 200V, HX, H, U, and S Chips: PCs featuring these processors will be available starting later this month.

• Core Ultra 200H Processors: Systems powered by these chips will launch in early Q1 2025.

• Core Ultra 200HX Processors: Devices equipped with these processors are expected to arrive in late Q1 2025.

What This Means

Intel’s new lineup showcases its commitment to addressing past challenges and innovating for the future. With AI-driven optimizations, improved graphics, and a focus on power efficiency, the Core Ultra processors cater to a wide range of users—from gamers and creators to enterprise clients. By leveraging advanced AI accelerators and neural processing units, Intel aims to redefine performance benchmarks and reestablish itself as a leader in the competitive chip market.

Editor’s Note: This article was created by Alicia Shapiro, CMO of AiNews.com, with writing, image, and idea-generation support from ChatGPT, an AI assistant. However, the final perspective and editorial choices are solely Alicia Shapiro’s. Special thanks to ChatGPT for assistance with research and editorial support in crafting this article.