Intel’s formally launched their Core Ultra Meteor Lake CPUs this December 14 in an initimate launch event where they introduced a range of mobile processors, each with unique specifications and designed for different segments of the mobile computing market. These processors are notable as they are the first for Intel using a non-monolitic approach or disaggregated, chiplet-based design, utilizing Intel’s Foveros packaging technology. This approach aims to optimize performance-per-Watt and reduce latencies between chiplets.
Key SKUs and Their Specifications
- Core Ultra U-Segment SKUs:
- Core Ultra 7 165U:
- 2 “Redwood Cove” P-cores, 8 “Crestmont” E-cores, 2 “Crestmont” low-power island cores
- P-core boost: Up to 4.90 GHz
- E-core boost: Up to 3.80 GHz
- iGPU boost: Up to 2.00 GHz
- Base power: 15 W, Turbo power: 57 W
- Core Ultra 7 164U (Lower Power Variant):
- Same core configuration as 165U
- P-core boost: Up to 4.80 GHz
- iGPU boost: Up to 1.80 GHz
- Base power: 9 W, Turbo power: 30 W
- Core Ultra 7 155U:
- Same core configuration as 165U
- P-core boost: Up to 4.80 GHz
- E-core boost: Up to 3.80 GHz
- iGPU boost: Up to 1.95 GHz
- Base power: 15 W, Turbo power: 57 W
- Core Ultra 7 134U:
- Same core configuration as 165U
- P-core boost: Up to 4.40 GHz
- E-core boost: Up to 3.60 GHz
- iGPU boost: Up to 1.75 GHz
- Base power: 9 W, Turbo power: 30 W
- Core Ultra 7 165U:
- Core Ultra H-Segment SKUs:
- Core Ultra 7 165H:
- 6 “Redwood Cove” P-cores, 8 “Crestmont” E-cores
- P-core boost: Up to 5.00 GHz
- E-core boost: Up to 3.80 GHz
- iGPU boost: Up to 2.30 GHz
- Base power: 28 W, Turbo power: 64 W to 115 W
- Core Ultra 7 155H:
- Same core configuration as 165H
- P-core boost: Up to 4.80 GHz
- E-core boost: Up to 3.80 GHz
- iGPU boost: Up to 2.25 GHz
- Base power: 28 W, Turbo power: 64 W to 115 W
- Core Ultra 7 165H:
Technical Analysis and Commentary
- Disaggregated Design: The chiplet-based design of “Meteor Lake” represents a significant shift in processor architecture, aiming to optimize performance and power efficiency.
- Heterogeneous CPU Architecture: The introduction of low-power island CPU cores is a strategic move to enhance energy efficiency while maintaining performance.
- Segmentation Strategy: Intel’s categorization into U-, H-, and P-segments targets a wide range of devices, from ultraportables to high-performance gaming notebooks.
- Performance and Power Efficiency: The varying configurations and power settings across SKUs indicate Intel’s focus on balancing performance with energy efficiency.
The Good, The Bad, and Areas for Improvement
- The Good: The range of SKUs caters to diverse needs, and the innovative chiplet design is a step forward in processor technology.
- The Bad: The complexity of the lineup might be confusing for consumers. The reliance on advanced packaging technology may pose challenges in manufacturing scalability.
- Improvements: Simplifying the lineup for easier consumer understanding and ensuring consistent performance across different power profiles would be beneficial.
In conclusion, Intel’s Core Ultra “Meteor Lake” processors represent a significant advancement in mobile computing, offering a range of options for various user needs. While the innovative design and segmentation are commendable, simplification and consistent performance across SKUs would further strengthen the lineup.