Intel has updated its processor lineup with the release of Panther Lake models for laptops and compact desktop computers at CES 2026. Early tests indicate strong performance in both integrated GPU and CPU capabilities. Meanwhile, on the desktop front, the Arrow Lake-S series continues to compete, though it faces challenges from the AMD RYZEN 9000 and AMD RYZEN 9000X3D series, which currently offer more competitive performance.
Intel is already preparing the Nova Lake-S models, the next generation of processors, and company leadership has high expectations for them. These processors are currently slated for release sometime in the latter half of the year, but Intel will necessitate additional processors in the interim to bolster its competitiveness.
The upcoming processors will be the Arrow Lake Refresh models, expected to arrive in three variations, all designated with a “Plus” suffix. The Core Ultra 5 250K Plus, Core Ultra 7 270K Plus, and Core Ultra 9 290K Plus are anticipated to arrive in the spring. However, more specific information has emerged from leakers, suggesting a launch in March. Independent testing is expected to begin on March 23, 2026, though the exact dates for a formal announcement and product availability remain unconfirmed. It’s possible all three events will occur in March.
The Core Ultra 5 250K Plus and Core Ultra 7 270K Plus have already appeared on some price lists, indicating the launch timeframe is approaching. The Core Ultra 5 250K Plus will succeed the Core Ultra 245K, but will feature 12 Efficiency-cores (E-cores) alongside 6 Performance-cores (P-cores), an increase of 4 E-cores. It is currently listed for around $246, though this may not be the final price—the Core Ultra 5 245K originally launched with a list price of $319.
The Core Ultra 7 270K Plus will succeed the Core Ultra 7 265K, featuring 8 P-cores and 16 E-cores—an increase of four E-cores. This model is currently listed for $357, while the Core Ultra 7 265K launched at $394.
Interestingly, the fastest member of the Arrow Lake Refresh generation, the Core Ultra 9 290K Plus, has not yet appeared on price lists, potentially indicating a later release. However, industry sources suggest this may not be the case: the Core Ultra 9 290K Plus may not launch at all, with the Core Ultra 9 285K remaining the flagship. There was limited potential for core count increases with this model, only some clock speed improvements, as the Arrow Lake chip already features 24 cores in the Core Ultra 9 285K. This information should be treated as unconfirmed for now.
It’s also worth noting that the Core Ultra 9 285K recently received simpler packaging, with new shipments arriving without the traditional deluxe box, though some units will still be available in the original packaging until stock runs out. Intel typically makes such a change when a new flagship model is on the horizon, suggesting the current model’s lifecycle is nearing its conclude.
