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Recently, Intel officially launched the Intel Core Ultra processor, bringing outstanding computing and graphics performance and an extraordinary AI PC experience to mobile platforms and edge computing, and announced that it will launch more than 230 models with mainstream OEM partners, opening a new era of AI PCs.
Unlike other Core processors, these processors include a CPU and GPU in a single package, as well as an on-chip AI accelerator called a neural network processing unit (NPU) for clients. So what exactly about a Core Ultra processor with an NPU?
CPU-wise
First of all, Intel Core Ultra processors can be broadly divided into 3 levels: Intel Core Ultra processors9, Intel Core Ultra processors7, and Intel Core Ultra processors5. Among them, the Intel Core Ultra processor 9 has the strongest performance.
The Intel Core Ultra processor is the first processor built on Intel 4 process technology, which uses advanced Foveros 3D packaging technology, combining cutting-edge intellectual property achievements with advanced process technology to optimize the performance of related modules. The new Performance Core architecture improves Instructions Per Cycle, while the E-cores and LP E-cores deliver scalable multi-threaded performance and offload more background workloads for P-cores for more efficient multitasking.
In addition, Intel Core Ultra processors also support Adaptive Boost and Intel Turbo Boost Max Technology 3.0.
Adaptive Boost: Boost gaming and multi-core performance by intelligently accelerating the processor to run at frequencies higher than rated as power, cooling, and workload allow.
Intel Turbo Boost Max Technology 3.0: Allocate critical workloads to cores as power, cooling, and workload allow.
In terms of specific models, the current Core Ultra processor is only available for mobile platforms, including the H-series and U-series. Among them, the H series is mainly for high-performance thin and light products, and the U series is mainly for thinner and portable models.
GPU-wise
In terms of GPUs, the H-series Intel Core Ultra processors are equipped with Intel® Arc™ graphics inside. The U-series is equipped with Intel Graphics®.
Judging from the specific parameters, even the Ultra processor that is also equipped with a Arc graphics card has different cores and maximum frequency of the graphics card. But on the whole, the performance of the graphics card carried by the H series is significantly stronger than that of the U series.
On the NPU side
NPU is simply a dedicated AI engine. However, it should be noted that usually not only the NPU is used to process AI applications, but also the CPU and GPU are responsible for the corresponding AI acceleration functions. The Intel Core Ultra processor (Intel Core Ultra 165H) delivers 2.5x more energy efficiency than its predecessor (i7-1370P).
In September this year, Intel CEO Pat Gelsinger proposed a revolutionary concept of PC in Silicon Valley - AI PC. With the Intel Core Ultra processor, AI PCs will become popular. This makes it easier and more convenient for people to use AI capabilities. For example, AI dubbing, voice changing, and video conference eye correction will also include generative AI, such as Wensheng text, Wensheng diagram, and Wensheng music. In addition, it will include AI cutout, gesture recognition, motion capture, and other wonderful features.
In addition, Intel launched the "AI PC Acceleration Program" in October this year. In the AI PC Acceleration Program, Intel plans to work with more than 100 independent software vendors (ISVs) and integrate more than 300 AI acceleration capabilities. Intel will continue to enhance the PC experience in audio effects, content creation, gaming, security, live streaming, video collaboration, and more. Initial partners include Adobe, Audacity, BlackMagic, BufferZone, CyberLink, DeepRender, Fortemedia, MAGIX, Rewind AI, Skylum, Topaz, VideoCom, Webex, Wondershare Filmora, Xsplit, and Zoom.