Intel is expanding its Core Ultra processor lineup with new “Plus” models, offering increased core counts and enhanced performance, according to recent announcements. The move comes as the company continues to innovate in CPU technology, aiming to deliver more powerful and efficient processors for a range of devices.
MSI has shared details regarding power configurations for Intel’s Arrow Lake series CPUs, including a potential “Arrow Lake-S Refresh,” reigniting speculation about the longevity of the LGA 1851 socket. The leaked slide, originally shared on the Korean hardware forum Quasar Zone, suggests Intel was considering a refresh even after initial reports indicated otherwise.
The Arrow Lake processors, released on October 24, 2024, build upon the disaggregated multi-chip module design first introduced with Meteor Lake. Unlike Meteor Lake, which was limited to mobile applications, Arrow Lake encompasses both desktop and mobile processors. The series includes Core Ultra 200H and 200HX mobile processors, which debuted in early 2025.
New MSI gaming laptops are now featuring Intel Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus processors, delivering maximum power for demanding gaming experiences. This highlights a trend toward increasingly powerful mobile computing solutions.
Intel is also introducing a suite of software technologies – including APO, iBOT, and IPPP – designed to boost CPU performance by up to 24%. These advancements demonstrate Intel’s commitment to optimizing both hardware and software for improved user experiences.
Recent testing of the Intel Core Ultra 5 250K and Core Ultra 7 270K processors shows a strategic price offensive against AMD’s mid-range offerings. These processors represent an important step forward in Intel’s product roadmap, offering a balance of performance and value.
The Arrow Lake processors utilize the x86-64 instruction set and support DDR5-6400 memory with up to 256GB capacity. They also feature PCIe 5.0 support with 20 PCIe 5.0 lanes and 4 PCIe 4.0 lanes, alongside DMI 4.0 x8. The processors boast Lion Cove P-cores and Skymont E-cores, with peak core clocks reaching up to 5.7 GHz.
