Intel launches the first processors in the 10th generation Core line, with 11 "Ice Lake" models bringing high-performance AI and Iris Plus graphics in "remarkably sleek" laptops and hybrid devices.
“These 10th Gen Intel Core processors shift the paradigm for what it means to deliver leadership in mobile PC platforms," Chipzilla says. "With broad-scale AI for the first time on PCs, an all-new graphics architecture, best-in-class Wifi 6 (Gig+) and Thunderbolt 3-- all integrated onto the SoC, thanks to Intel’s 10nm process technology and architecture design-- we’re opening the door to an entirely new range of experiences and innovations for the laptop.”
The processors range from dual-core i3 to quad-core i7, all built using 10nm "Sunny Cove" architecture. As the company puts it, the 10th gen Core processors promise performance and responsiveness gains, together with AI, graphics, connectivity and I/O optimised for an SoC purpose-built for thin-and-light laptops and 2-in-1s. On the AI side, Deep Learning Boost allows for automatic image enhancements, photo indexing and photorealistic effects, while Gaussian & Neural Accelerate (GNA) brings a dedicated engine for background workloads such as voice processing and noise suppression.
On the graphics side, Iris Plus technology claims to handle 1080p gaming and high-level content creation such as 4K video editing and high-resolution photo processing. The integrated GPUs handle the VESA Adaptive Sync display standard, as well as the BT.2020 specification for 4K HDR video and variable rate shading for improved rendering performance. Connectivity should also get a boost through the support for Wifi 6 (Gig+) support and up to x4 Thunderbolt 3 ports.
The Ice Lake processors should make an appearance in products shipping in Q4 2019. Vendors including Acer, Dell, HP and Lenovo should be selling such products, all making part of the "Project Athena" next-gen laptop program.
Go Intel Launches First 10th Gen Intel Core Processors: Redefining the Next Era of Laptop Experiences