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Intel Nova Lake-S CPUs may use both Xe3 and Xe4 graphics architectures

A new report from a typically reliable Intel hardware leaker suggests that Intel's forthcoming Nova Lake-S desktop processors, slated for an early 2026 arrival, will feature a blend of integrated graphics architectures. While the inclusion of Xe3 integrated graphics for Nova Lake-S has been a long-standing rumour, a new rumour adds a detail that points towards a more sophisticated, hybrid approach.

According to Jaykhin, it appears that while the integrated graphics architecture of Nova Lake-S will indeed be rooted in the Xe3 “Celestial” GPU family, Intel is planning to integrate elements from Xe4 for the display and media engines. This is rather intriguing, as Xe3 graphics aren't even expected to hit volume production until early next year. Moreover, using Xe4 graphics architecture on the display and media engine could allow Intel to significantly boost media engine performance without inflating the cost of the entire GPU subsystem.

On the CPU side, Nova Lake-S is projected to arrive with a varied lineup across four primary SKU levels. The flagship model is expected to boast 52 cores, comprising 16 P-cores, 32 E-cores, and four low-power E-cores. For the high-end laptop and desktop segments, a 28-core variant is anticipated, featuring eight P-cores, 16 E-cores, and four low-power E-cores. The mid-range, targeting both lower-power desktop and laptop markets, might see a 16-core model with four P-cores, eight E-cores, and four low-power E-cores. Finally, an entry-level 8-core processor is rumoured to be equipped with four P-cores and four low-power E-cores.

While it remains to be seen if all SKUs will incorporate the Xe3 and Xe4 architectures, Intel's inherent tile-based strategy provides flexibility to mix and match GPU configurations to suit different market segments.

KitGuru says: Can Nova Lake-S put Intel back on track in the desktop PC segment?

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