Intel Unveils New AI Processors at CES 2025
Las Vegas, Friday, 10 January 2025.
Intel introduced its Core and Core Ultra processors at CES 2025, designed to elevate AI and edge computing with improved performance and efficiency, positioning itself against competitors like Nvidia.
Core Ultra Series Specifications and Capabilities
Intel’s latest Core Ultra 200V series showcases significant advancements in AI processing capabilities, featuring 8 CPU cores with 4 Performance-cores running at 4.5 GHz and 4 Efficient-cores at 3.5 GHz [1]. The processors include an impressive neural processing unit capable of up to 48 TOPS, along with modern connectivity features such as PCI-Express 5, Wi-Fi 7, and Bluetooth 5.4 [1]. Battery efficiency has been prioritized, with the series offering up to 20.3 hours of operation on a single charge [1]. These processors represent Intel’s strategic response to the growing demand for AI capabilities in consumer and enterprise products [2].
Gaming and Content Creation Performance
The Core Ultra 200S series, specifically designed for gaming and content creation, demonstrates Intel’s commitment to high-performance computing. This series features up to 8 performance cores and 16 efficient cores [1][3], with the flagship Core Ultra 9 285HX achieving impressive speeds of up to 5.5 GHz for P-cores and 4.8 GHz for E-cores [3]. The processors support advanced memory configurations, including DDR5-6400 and LPDDR5x-8400, with maximum capacities of 96 GB for DDR5 and 64 GB for LPDDR5X [3].
Edge Computing and Market Competition
In the competitive landscape of AI processing, Intel claims its new chips deliver up to 5.8x faster performance and superior energy efficiency compared to Nvidia’s offerings [5]. This advancement comes at a crucial time, as Nvidia currently dominates the AI inference market, which constitutes 40% of their total revenue [5]. Intel’s strategy focuses on edge computing applications, where reduced latency and bandwidth costs are critical factors [5]. As stated by Michael Masci, VP of product management in Intel’s edge computing group, ‘AI inference at the edge is the next major hotbed for AI innovation and implementation’ [5].
Availability and Future Outlook
Intel has established a clear rollout schedule for its new processors. The Core Ultra 200V series became available starting January 6, 2025, while the Core Ultra 200H and U series will launch in February 2025 [3]. The Core Ultra 200HX series is scheduled for release in the first half of 2025, and the Core Ultra 200S series will be available from January 13, 2025 [3]. This strategic launch timeline demonstrates Intel’s commitment to maintaining momentum in the AI processor market while ensuring proper integration and support across various computing platforms [3].