Intel’s next-generation “Nova Lake-HX” mobile processors, designed for high-end gaming notebooks and workstations, have recently been detailed in leaked information. These upcoming chips are anticipated to bring significant increases in core counts, with the flagship model rumored to feature up to 28 CPU cores. A notable aspect of these processors is their minimal integrated graphics, indicating a strong reliance on discrete GPUs for visual processing.
The top-tier “Nova Lake-HX” processor is expected to boast a substantial 28 CPU cores. This configuration is comprised of eight “Coyote Cove” Performance-cores (P-cores) and sixteen “Arctic Wolf” Efficient-cores (E-cores). Furthermore, four “Arctic Wolf” based low-power E-cores (LPE-cores) will be integrated within the SoC tile, contributing to overall efficiency in the processor’s design. This flagship model is likely to be part of the Core Ultra 400HX series.
For consumers who may not require the maximum core count, Intel is also planning a performance-segment configuration for the “Nova Lake-HX” series. This variant will reportedly include six P-cores and eight E-cores, along with four low-power E-cores. This brings the total core count for this secondary configuration to 16. It is expected to leverage the same Compute tile as the mainstream “Nova Lake-H” processors, but paired with the enhanced SoC and I/O tiles characteristic of the “HX” series.
A distinctive feature highlighted in the leaks is the extremely limited integrated graphics (iGPU) across both “Nova Lake-HX” processor configurations. These chips are set to feature the smallest graphics tile within the “Nova Lake” family, equipped with only two Xe cores. The integrated graphics will be based on the new Xe4 “Druid” architecture.
This minimalist approach to integrated graphics represents a strategic decision by Intel. By minimizing the iGPU, the company can potentially reduce power consumption and die size. This strategy allows resources to be focused primarily on the CPU cores and the crucial PCI-Express 5.0 interface, which is essential for connecting powerful external graphics cards.
These “Nova Lake-HX” processors are specifically designed for systems that will utilize powerful discrete GPUs. The inclusion of a full PCI-Express 5.0 interface underscores their intended role in high-performance computing environments where dedicated graphics processing is paramount.
While specific launch dates remain unconfirmed, industry speculation suggests that the “Nova Lake-HX” processors are anticipated to debut in late 2026 or early 2027. This timeline aligns with Intel’s typical release cycles for its flagship mobile platforms, with a potential unveiling around CES 2027. The “400HX” series naming convention hints that Intel may designate the “300” series for other product lines, such as “Panther Lake” or “Wildcat Lake,” continuing their established product segmentation trends.