Intel Creates New Premium Tier: Core Ultra “X” Series to Feature Exclusive Graphics Advantage
Intel is implementing a significant segmentation strategy with its upcoming Panther Lake mobile processors, reserving the full 12 Xe3 graphics cores exclusively for new “Core Ultra X” series models. This move creates a clear premium tier within the product lineup and marks the debut of Intel’s next-generation Xe3 graphics architecture.
According to leaks from reliable sources with Intel connections, the company’s new naming scheme directly correlates with graphics capabilities. Only Core Ultra X9 and X7 models will feature the complete 12 Xe3 core configuration, while other SKUs in the lineup will receive reduced graphics capabilities. This represents Intel’s most explicit graphics-based segmentation to date and signals the company’s increased focus on integrated graphics performance as a key differentiator.
Decoding Intel’s New Naming System
The leaked information reveals a logical but complex naming system:
- Core Ultra X9/X7: Feature 12 Xe3 graphics cores (full configuration)
- 3_8 SKUs (like Ultra 5 338H): Include 10 Xe3 cores
- 3_6 SKUs: Feature fewer than 10 Xe3 cores
This numbering shift from the previous generation (where the “5” in 285H becomes “8” in 388H) specifically indicates the graphics configuration rather than memory capacity, as was the case with Lunar Lake’s on-package memory design.
The Panther Lake-H Lineup Takes Shape
Four Panther Lake-H SKUs have been identified so far:
- Core Ultra X9 388H: 4P + 8E + 4LP cores, 12 Xe3 graphics cores
- Core Ultra X7 368H: 4P + 8E + 4LP cores, 12 Xe3 graphics cores
- Core Ultra X7 358H: 4P + 8E + 4LP cores, 12 Xe3 graphics cores
- Core Ultra 5 338H: 4P + 4E + 4LP cores, 10 Xe3 graphics cores
Notably, all models feature the low-power E-core cluster that Intel introduced with Lunar Lake, maintaining the power efficiency advantages while potentially increasing overall core counts compared to previous H-series processors.
Strategic Implications and Market Positioning
This segmentation strategy serves multiple purposes for Intel:
- Clear Premium Tier: The “X” designation creates an obvious hierarchy for consumers
- Graphics Leadership: Emphasizes Intel’s integrated graphics capabilities against competitors
- Pricing Flexibility: Enables wider price points within the same generation
- Technology Showcase: Positions Xe3 as a significant enough advancement to warrant exclusive access
The Xe3 architecture in Panther Lake (likely called Xe3-LPG) will also serve as a preview of what to expect from Intel’s future discrete desktop graphics cards codenamed “Celestial” or Arc C-Series.
Also, Read
Intel to Reveal Panther Lake Architecture Next Week, But Performance Details Wait Until 2026
Intel May Introduce “Core Ultra X” Premium CPU Tier with Panther Lake Launch
The Bottom Line
Intel’s new Core Ultra X series represents the company’s most aggressive graphics-based segmentation to date, creating a clear premium tier defined by maximum Xe3 graphics performance. For consumers, this means careful consideration of graphics needs when choosing between X-series and standard models, as the difference could significantly impact gaming and creative performance on future Panther Lake laptops.
Source: Golden Pig Upgrade