Rumors about Intel’s “Nova Lake-S” processors are picking up, hinting that the design is almost ready! Expected to launch in the second half of 2026, this lineup will offer everything from basic quad-core models to a top-tier 52-core chip. Early details suggest Intel is using a tile-based approach, splitting LPE cores from P-cores and E-cores to boost flexibility and efficiency. Leading the pack is the rumored Core Ultra 9, possibly the 385K, packing 16 P-cores, 32 E-cores, and four LPE-cores for a total of 52 cores. With a 150 W TDP, it’s set to be the most powerful option in this series. Just below it, a Core Ultra 7 model with 14 P-cores, 24 E-cores, and four LPE-cores could offer 42 cores.
The Core Ultra 5 series might include three options: a 28-core version with eight P-cores, 16 E-cores, and four LPE-cores; a 24-core version with eight P-cores, 12 E-cores, and four LPE-cores; and an 18-core model with six P-cores, eight E-cores, and four LPE-cores. For entry-level users, the Core Ultra 3 could come in a 16-core setup with four P-cores, eight E-cores, and four LPE-cores, or a 12-core option with four P-cores, four E-cores, and four LPE-cores, both aiming for a 65 W power use. All desktop models will likely have four LPE cores on a separate die, similar to Meteor Lake’s multi-tile design. Power needs will range from 65 W for basics to 150 W for the high-end chips. Intel is also working on a new LGA 1954 socket, even as it preps an Arrow Lake-S update for late 2025. Plus, they’re using Xe3 “Celestial” for graphics and Xe4 “Druid” for media and display tasks.
What do you think about these upcoming Intel processors? I’d love to hear your thoughts!
Sources: chi11eddog on X, via VideoCardz
