Latest 16th Generation Intel processors
Latest 16th Generation Intel processors
Address the scheduling problems at least, and the X3D cores are now essentially identical to regular cores after the cache moved inside them—no longer blocking heat flow, though the poor IHS remains an issue, meaning performance will still be limited for high power demands.
Panther Lake is anticipated this year, offering a mobile experience. I understand the desire for desktop functionality, but our focus remains on a more specialized audience. Next year's Nova Lake seems likely. AMD’s hybrid strategy aims to combine strengths, but it only works if you’re not fully utilizing the CPU. When you do, performance suffers. You need speed? Half the clock is insufficient. More cache? It lacks sufficient capacity. The slower components hinder overall efficiency. I believe AMD deemed a dual 3D cache niche unprofitable and prefers targeting server/workstation segments instead. Consumer pricing isn’t the issue—what matters is the significant difference in cost for similar parts with varying cache levels. Double that impact. Right now, acquiring two CCD AMD modules would push me toward non-3D solutions since they’re more beneficial for a uniform CPU design. I hope there’s a viable workaround to bypass the 8-core limit, perhaps by moving to 12 or even 16-core CCX options, ensuring we still achieve substantial progress. Otherwise, they’ll need a major leap beyond IFOP.
This version isn't as strong with 9000x3D's 'gen2' 3D v-cache mod that stays under the CCD. It's probably still affected by heat when power levels rise, but Zen5's efficiency reduces that issue even more. I thought the 9800x3D would perform well based only on Zen5's performance, then AMD improved the main drawbacks of 3D v-cache. The 9950x3D benchmarks aren't available. We probably won't see extreme overclocking content until reviewers have more time (most seem tired from the lengthy review process), so we might just wait for consumer testing. I won't buy one—I learned enough about 3D v-cache versus alternatives with the 7950x3D. The 9800x3D offers overclocking features and the gen2 3D v-cache delivers solid gaming experience, especially in SFF/ITX spaces. Fortunately, they're now widely available and clearly the better choice for gamers.
Based on the 9950X3D feedback, it seems AMD has resolved the scheduling problems previously.
I truly wish Intel would leave with board members focused on quarterly reports while a new manufacturing method could take four years to develop. Good silicon and solid designs will attract customers. The smartest approach is to stay steady, perfect that 18A process, and let it mature. Does 18A require two more quarters before it’s ready? Let it develop. And thank Pat for his support—bring him back. Intel’s future depends on exceptional transistors. Also, where are the top-tier GPUs? I found one near the MSRP, but they’re hard to come by. Make sure to secure your TSMC allocation and release more Battlemages. The $300 gap in the GPU market won’t stay closed forever.
Panther Lake is now postponed to 2026. Officially it should start by year-end, but it may only be available as a standard paper product or limited to OEMs. Users won't receive it until early 2026. The Arrow Lake refresh has been scrapped, and no new chips will be released on the 1851 socket.
There were solid whispers about the battlemage dGPU being dropped. The issue was that Intel had already locked in a fab agreement, and after Arc kept getting delayed multiple times, TSMC didn’t want to break their deal or push production further back...so they faced a tough choice: absorb the expense with no reward or move forward with whatever was available. If demand continues, it’s unlikely to appear soon, which suggests AMD and Nvidia will likely offer better options in that price segment. Think of "Gil" from The Simpsons—Intel has turned into...this kind of relentless competitor...and this is just the next move.
I might be mistaken. Early January saw whispers about an AL refresh, but it was expected to only offer slight upgrades for the NPU. Recently, some YouTubers mentioned the refresh was canceled to prioritize more impactful projects like Panther and Nova Lake. However, after reviewing your feedback, I noticed the rumors are still circulating, centered on NPU enhancements. Still, it seems unclear why this would matter now—especially since the ultra 200 series isn’t performing well, and recent GPUs haven’t significantly improved AI performance compared to what NPUs can achieve.