Intel Core Ultra Processor Unveiled: 34TOPS AI Power

On December 14th, Intel unveiled its highly-anticipated Intel Core Ultra processor, codenamed "Meteor Lake," at the "AI Everywhere" event in New York. This cutting-edge processor, specifically tailored for AI PC products, introduces remarkable advancements in CPU and GPU performance, coupled with an integrated NPU (Neural Processing Unit) core, providing an impressive total AI computing power of 34TOPS.

1. Innovative Chiplet+3D Packaging:

The Intel Core Ultra "Meteor Lake" CPU adopts an innovative chiplet design incorporating diverse manufacturing processes for distinct tiles. These include the Intel 4nm-based Compute Tile, TSMC's 5nm GPU Tile, and TSMC's 6nm SoC and I/O Tiles. This strategic approach ensures optimal performance, with Intel manufacturing the core Compute Tile and leveraging TSMC for other components.

2. Revolutionary Core Architecture Upgrade:

Meteor Lake's Compute Tile introduces a hybrid core architecture with Redwood Cove P-Core and Crestmont E-Core. The H/P series supports up to 14 cores (6+8), while the U series CPU offers a maximum of 12 cores (4+8). The GPU Tile sees a significant upgrade from Xe LP to Alchemist Xe LPG, featuring up to 128 EUs, doubling performance per watt. The SoC Tile introduces a low-power island E-core and an integrated NPU for efficient AI acceleration on PCs.

Moreover, the new GPU supports higher frequencies, exceeding 2GHz under the same voltage. Enhanced support for DX12U, "Out of Order Sampling," and a new Xe media engine further solidify Meteor Lake's prowess.

The I/O Tile offers support for LPDDR5X-7467 and DDR5-5200, with a maximum capacity of 96 GB DDR5 and 64 GB LPDDR5X. Additionally, it features x8 PCIe Gen 5 channels (exclusive to H series), three x4 M.2 Gen 4 SSD interfaces, and four Thunderbolt 4 ports.

3. Core Ultra Product Lineup:

The Intel Core Ultra "Meteor Lake" product lineup is categorized into two segments: the high-end Core Ultra 100H and the low-power Core Ultra 100U.

The flagship SKU of the Core Ultra 100H series is the Intel Core Ultra 9 185H, boasting 16 cores (6+8+2 P-Core/E-Core/LP E-Core), 22 threads, 24 MB L3 cache, and frequencies ranging from 3.8 GHz to 5.1 GHz. It features an Intel Arc GPU with 8 Xe cores, operating at 2350 MHz, while maintaining a TDP of 45W (base) and 115W (maximum turbo).

The Core Ultra 100U series comprises six SKUs, including Core Ultra 7 165U, Core Ultra 7 164U, and Core Ultra 7 155U. With 12 cores (2+8+2 P-Core/E-Core/LP E-Core), 14 threads, and 12 MB L3 cache, these CPUs offer clock speeds from 3.8 GHz to 4.9 GHz. TDP ratings range from 9/15W, with MTP at 30/57W.

Intel anticipates the initial availability of Core Ultra 7 and Core Ultra 5 "Meteor Lake" CPUs in the coming days, with the Core Ultra 9 series expected to launch in January 2024. Further details will be revealed at the 2024 CES exhibition.