Intel recently provided some clarification on the desktop launch of its first-generation Core Ultra CPU, code-named "Meteor Lake." Intel Meteor Lake CPUs will not appear on socket-based platforms, only in desktop AIO and mini PC solutions.
At the "Innovation 2023" conference, Michelle Johnston Holthaus, Intel executive vice president and general manager of CCG (Client Computing Group), confirmed desktop computers based on Meteor Lake CPU. However, it seems that the desktop launch of the Meteor Lake CPU will be quite limited, as it will only be targeted at the pre-built AIO and MiniPC markets. The following is a clarification quoted by Andreas Schilling of technology media Hardwareluxx:
This means we once again have to stick with rumors that Intel's Meteor Lake CPUs (LGA1851 socket) have more or less been cancelled. This is undoubtedly disappointing news for desktop gamers and enthusiasts who were looking forward to the launch of new chips on the LGA1851 platform, but now it seems that these users will have to wait a little longer as ArrowLake-S is once again positioned as the first desktop CPU series on the LGA1851 socket platform.
Intel Arrow Lake-S desktop CPUs are expected to be available in the second half of 2024 and will replace the 14th generation Raptor Lake Refresh CPU lineup and the LGA1700 platform. As for Meteor Lake desktop computers, we can expect all products to use BGA processors, including AIOs (all-in-one computers) and MiniPCs. Companies such as ASUS, GMKTEC and Minisforum are already developing MiniPCs equipped with Meteor Lake CPU, which are expected to be launched around CES in 2024.
Now that ArrowLake will replace RaptorLakeRefresh, we can expect an even bigger jump in desktop performance than going from MeteorLake to ArrowLake. Leaked benchmarks (estimates) show a 21% performance improvement over Raptor Lake for the 8+16 SKU, but the end result will be different since the product line is still nearly a year away.
Meteor Lake will follow the design of various other Intel CPUs that are exclusive to mobile platforms, such as Cannon Lake, Ice Lake, Tiger Lake, and even the next-generation Lunar Lake, which will be the successor to Arrow Lake in 2025.
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