Intel has introduced a new generation of processors under the Intel Core Ultra branding, marking a major shift in how the company designs CPUs for laptops and desktops. If you’ve seen “Core Ultra 5,” “Core Ultra 7,” or “Core Ultra 9” and wondered what they mean, this guide breaks it all down.
The Intel Core Ultra processor is a revolutionary new chip that brings advanced AI capabilities and performance to personal computing. The Core Ultra series represents a big step forward in processor technology, offering enhanced capabilities and user experiences. This article explores the features of the Core Ultra, its comparison with competitors, and insights from the tech community.
What Is Intel Core Ultra?
Intel Core Ultra is Intel’s latest processor family, launched in late 2023 with the Meteor Lake architecture. Unlike older Intel Core i3/i5/i7/i9 chips, Core Ultra processors are built with a chiplet design and feature a dedicated Neural Processing Unit (NPU) for AI tasks.
This makes them more efficient, more powerful, and better suited for modern workloads like AI, graphics, and multitasking.
Key Features of Intel Core Ultra
- New Naming System
- Replaces the old “Core i” branding.
- Example: Intel Core Ultra 7 155H instead of Intel Core i7-13700H.
- Chiplet (Tile-Based) Design
- Separates CPU, GPU, NPU, and I/O into different “tiles” for better efficiency.
- First time Intel has used this modular approach in consumer CPUs.
- Built-in Neural Processing Unit (NPU)
- Handles AI and machine learning tasks locally.
- Improves performance for AI-driven apps like video editing, image generation, and Windows Copilot.
- Integrated Arc Graphics
- Intel’s Arc GPU technology is built directly into Core Ultra chips.
- Delivers stronger graphics performance than previous Intel integrated GPUs.
- Improved Power Efficiency
- Built on Intel 4 process technology (7nm-class).
- Better battery life for laptops without sacrificing performance.
Intel Core Ultra Naming Breakdown
Here’s how to read a Core Ultra processor name:
Example: Intel Core Ultra 7 155H
- Core Ultra → New branding.
- 7 → Performance tier (5 = mainstream, 7 = high performance, 9 = enthusiast).
- 1 → Generation (1 = first-gen Meteor Lake).
- 55 → Model number.
- H → Power class (H = high performance, U = ultra-low power, etc.).
Intel Core Ultra vs. Intel Core (Old Branding)
| Feature | Intel Core (i3/i5/i7/i9) | Intel Core Ultra (5/7/9) |
|---|---|---|
| Branding | Core i3/i5/i7/i9 | Core Ultra 5/7/9 |
| Architecture | Monolithic design | Chiplet (tile-based) |
| AI Processing | None | Built-in NPU |
| Graphics | Intel Iris Xe | Intel Arc integrated GPU |
| Efficiency | Good | Much improved (Intel 4) |
| Target Use | General computing | AI, gaming, creative apps |
Who Should Consider Intel Core Ultra?
- Students & Professionals → Better battery life and efficiency.
- Content Creators → Faster video editing, rendering, and AI-based tools.
- Gamers → Improved integrated graphics for casual gaming.
- AI Enthusiasts → On-device AI acceleration without relying on the cloud.
Final Thoughts
Intel Core Ultra represents a new era of processors, built for AI, efficiency, and modern workloads. If you’re buying a laptop in 2025, chances are it will feature a Core Ultra chip — and that’s a good thing. Expect better performance, longer battery life, and future-ready AI capabilities.
👉 In short: Intel Core Ultra = AI-ready, more efficient, and more powerful than older Intel Core chips.
Intel’s Next-Gen Chip: What You Need to Know
Intel has officially launched its newest processor lineup, the Intel Core Ultra. This marks a shift in branding for Intel, moving away from the familiar “i” series.
What is Intel Core Ultra?
Intel Core Ultra is Intel’s new flagship processor series designed to power the next generation of high-performance laptops and mobile devices. The Core Ultra series replaces the previous “i” series, with models ranging from Core Ultra 5 to Core Ultra 9.
Key Features of Intel Core Ultra
Intel Core Ultra processors are designed with several key features to enhance performance and efficiency:
- Intel 4 Process Node: This new manufacturing process allows for smaller transistors, leading to improved performance and power efficiency.
- Hybrid Architecture: Intel Core Ultra combines Performance-cores (P-cores) for demanding tasks with Efficient-cores (E-cores) for background tasks, optimizing power usage.
- Intel Xe Graphics: Integrated graphics provide enhanced visual performance for gaming and content creation.
- AI Acceleration: Intel Core Ultra includes dedicated hardware for accelerating artificial intelligence (AI) workloads, enabling faster and more efficient AI applications.
Intel Core Ultra Lineup and Specifications
| Processor | P-Cores | E-Cores | Base Clock (GHz) | Max Turbo (GHz) | TDP (W) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Core Ultra 5 | 2 | 8 | 3.2 | 4.8 | 15 |
| Core Ultra 7 | 6 | 8 | 3.8 | 5.1 | 28 |
| Core Ultra 9 | 14 | 6 | 4.2 | 5.4 | 55 |
Note: These are just a few examples of the Intel Core Ultra lineup. Specifications may vary depending on the specific model and configuration.
What This Means for Consumers
With Intel Core Ultra, consumers can expect laptops and mobile devices with faster performance, longer battery life, and improved graphics capabilities. The AI acceleration features also pave the way for more powerful and efficient AI applications on consumer devices.
Availability and Pricing
Laptops and mobile devices powered by Intel Core Ultra processors are expected to be available in the coming months. Pricing will vary depending on the device manufacturer and configuration. Keep an eye out for announcements from your favorite brands.
Intel Core Ultra: Unveiling the AI PC Era
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Generation | First |
| Release Date | December 14, 2023 |
| Target Audience | Ultrathin Laptop Users |
| Focus | AI Performance, Power Efficiency, Immersive Entertainment |
| Key Technologies | |
| * Intel 4 Process Technology | Delivers up to 20% performance improvement per watt compared to the previous generation. |
| * Foveros 3D Advanced Packaging | Stacks multiple compute elements vertically for better performance and efficiency. |
| * New Performance-Core Architecture | Provides improved instructions per cycle (IPC) for faster performance. |
| * New Efficient-cores and Low-Power Efficient-cores | Offer scalable, multi-threaded performance and better power efficiency for everyday tasks. |
| * Integrated Intel Arc GPU | Features up to eight Xe-cores, AI-based Xe Super Sampling (XeSS), DX12 Ultimate support, and up to double the graphics performance over the previous generation. |
| * Intel® AI Boost NPU | Purpose-built for handling longer-running AI workloads at low power, complementing AI handled on both the CPU and GPU. |
Technical Specs
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Generation | First generation |
| Architecture | Intel 4 process technology |
| Packaging | Foveros 3D advanced packaging technology |
| Performance Cores (P-cores) | Improved instructions per cycle (IPC) for enhanced performance |
| Efficient Cores (E-cores) | Scalable multi-threaded performance for efficient multitasking |
| Low-Power Efficient Cores (LP E-cores) | Optimized for longer battery life and AI workloads |
| Integrated Intel Arc GPU | Up to eight Xe-cores for improved graphics performance and AI acceleration |
| Intel AI Boost NPU | Dedicated neural processing unit for specialized AI tasks, leading to 2.5x better power efficiency than previous generations |
| AI Features | Supports features like AV1 encode and decode, hardware-accelerated ray tracing, mesh shading, and intelligent workload management |
| Target Devices | Designed for premium laptops and ultrathin PCs |
Key Takeaways
- Enhanced AI and Graphics Performance: The Core Ultra series boasts up to 1.5x AI performance and 1.81x graphics performance compared to previous generations.
- Power Efficiency: Significant improvements in power efficiency, particularly in AI Performance/Watt, are a highlight.
- Integrated Intel Arc Graphics: Select models feature Intel Arc GPUs, offering advanced graphics capabilities.
- Versatile for Various Applications: Ideal for edge AI, smart city applications, and immersive interactivity in retail and entertainment.
Benefits
- AI-ready: Seamlessly process AI-powered applications and experiences. Unmatched AI performance for applications like photo and video editing, content creation, and gaming
- Immersive Graphics: Enjoy smooth gameplay and stunning visuals in movies and games. Immersive graphics and smooth gameplay with the integrated Intel Arc GPU
- Optimal Battery Life: Experience longer on-the-go usage thanks to improved power efficiency. Improved battery life thanks to efficient cores and AI-powered workload management.
- Enhanced security: Better security & privacy features for a safer computing experience
- New Generation of PCs: Ushers in an era of AI-powered laptops designed for modern productivity and entertainment.
Additional Notes:
- Intel Core Ultra is the first processor to utilize Intel 4 process technology and Foveros 3D packaging, leading to significant performance and efficiency improvements.
- The integrated AI capabilities make it ideal for users who rely heavily on AI-powered applications and workflows.
- The combination of powerful CPU cores, dedicated AI hardware, and advanced graphics processing makes it a versatile chip suitable for various demanding tasks.
- While currently available in premium laptops, expect to see it in more devices as the technology matures.
- Intel Core Ultra processors are the first to introduce the AI PC concept, emphasizing AI capabilities across hardware and software.
- They offer significant performance and efficiency improvements over previous generations.
- Availability of specific models and features may vary depending on the individual laptop configurations.
Intel Core Ultra Series: A Closer Look
The Core Ultra processors, particularly the H-series (28W) and U-series (15W), are designed for efficiency and performance. They feature multiple compute engines, including integrated Intel Arc graphics and an integrated NPU (Neural Processing Unit) for accelerated AI tasks.
Processor Specifications
- Processor Models: The series includes the Ultra 7 165H, 155H, Ultra 5 135H, and 125H.
- Core Configuration: Varies from 14 to 16 cores, with a mix of Performance-cores (P-cores) and Efficiency-cores (E-cores).
- Graphics Performance: Integrated Intel Arc GPUs with up to 128 Execution Units (EUs) in select models.
- Memory and Storage: Supports DDR5-5600, LPDDR5-6400, LPDDR5x-6400, and LPDDR5x-7467, with a maximum memory capacity of 64 GB.
Comparisons with AMD
- Performance Against AMD Ryzen 7 7840U: In over 300 CPU benchmarks on Linux, the Ryzen 7 7840U outperformed the Core Ultra 7 155H by 28% on average, with similar or lower power consumption.
- GPU Performance: Intel’s integrated Arc GPU is noted for its competitiveness against AMD’s integrated graphics, particularly in gaming scenarios.
Practical Applications
The Core Ultra series is well-suited for a range of applications, from digital safety in smart cities to AI automation in factories. Its power efficiency and AI capabilities make it ideal for smart hospitals and immersive retail experiences.
Intel Developer Cloud for the Edge
Intel offers the opportunity to test the latest hardware for Core Ultra processors on the Intel Developer Cloud for the Edge, allowing developers to explore the potential of this cutting-edge technology in a cloud environment.
Product and Performance Information
- Performance Variability: Performance can vary based on use, configuration, and other factors.
- Intel Arc Graphics Availability: Available only on select H-series, Intel Core Ultra processor-powered systems with specific system memory configurations.
Relevant Links
https://www.intel.com/content/www/us/en/newsroom/news/core-ultra-client-computing-news-1.html
FAQs
- What are the key features of Intel Core Ultra processors?
- Intel Core Ultra processors offer enhanced AI and graphics performance, power efficiency, and integrated Intel Arc graphics in select models.
- How does the Core Ultra series compare to AMD processors?
- While the Core Ultra series shows improvements in GPU performance, it still faces stiff competition from AMD processors, particularly in CPU performance and power efficiency.
- Are Intel Core Ultra processors suitable for gaming?
- Yes, especially models with integrated Intel Arc GPUs, which provide competitive gaming performance.
- Can the Core Ultra series be used for AI and edge computing applications?
- Absolutely. The series is designed for advanced AI tasks and edge computing, making it suitable for smart city applications, AI automation in factories, and more.
- What is the Intel Developer Cloud for the Edge?
- It’s a platform offered by Intel where developers can test and explore the capabilities of Core Ultra processors in a versatile cloud environment.
