Unable to afford Intel’s new Core Ultra CPUs | ENBLE
Unable to afford Intel's new Core Ultra CPUs | ENBLE
Intel Unveils New Laptop CPUs: Intel Core Ultra, aka Meteor Lake
Intel has just introduced its latest laptop CPUs, the Intel Core Ultra, codenamed Meteor Lake. These chips are poised to be some of the best processors available for laptops due to their innovative chiplet design and emphasis on AI capabilities. However, there is one downside – if the rumors are true, delving into the world of AI-infused laptops will come with a considerable price tag.
According to a report from Money UDN, the starting price for the first Intel Core Ultra laptops will be above $1,500. This may deter many potential buyers who are looking for a more affordable option. In this case, Intel’s Raptor Lake or AMD’s offerings may be more appealing, as they provide capable laptops across various price ranges.
While the potential price hike could discourage some users from upgrading, it seems that Intel isn’t aiming to compete in the mainstream market with the Core Ultra lineup. The entire Intel Innovation event revolved around AI, and the focus on Core Ultra reflects that. As a result, these laptops may not be relevant for the majority of users at the moment. The final prices will be confirmed when the laptops begin rolling out in mid-December and early 2024.
With the introduction of Meteor Lake, Intel is not only rebranding its processors but also making significant architectural changes. The new processors will feature a chiplet design using Foveros 3D packaging technology. Additionally, they will retain the hybrid core architecture from the previous two generations, but with the addition of Redwood Cove performance (P) cores and Crestmont efficiency (E) cores.
Apart from the CPU and GPU, which is now enhanced with the Alchemist Xe-LPG graphics chip, the Intel Core Ultra will also incorporate a neural processing unit (NPU). This NPU will handle AI workloads, a topic emphasized by Intel CEO Pat Gelsinger during his keynote at Intel Innovation. The company describes this architectural change as the most significant shift it has undergone in 40 years.
Given the current focus on AI, it’s no surprise that Intel’s event was centered around AI workloads and that they play a crucial role in the Meteor Lake lineup. While the NPU is responsible solely for handling AI workloads, the CPU and GPU are also capable of handling them.
But does this mean that Intel Core Ultra laptops will be irrelevant for regular users who have little interest in AI? Not necessarily. Intel promises a performance boost across all types of workloads, alongside improved power efficiency. However, the laptops’ specialization in AI will inevitably come with a higher price tag.
In conclusion, Intel’s new laptop CPUs, the Intel Core Ultra (Meteor Lake), bring exciting advancements in chiplet design and a focus on AI capabilities. While the price may be a deterrent for some, Intel aims to cater to users seeking enhanced performance and power efficiency, particularly in AI workloads. As these laptops hit the market, we will see if they live up to the expectations and deliver on their promise of being some of the best processors available for laptops.
