Intel Fires Back at AMD: Custom VRAM Allocation Comes to Core Ultra
Intel has quietly deployed a game-changing feature for its Core Ultra laptops: Shared GPU Memory Override. This new setting allows users to manually increase the amount of system memory allocated to integrated graphics – directly challenging AMD’s similar “Variable Graphics Memory” tech and supercharging AI performance.
Why This Matters
- AI/LLM Breakthrough: Run larger local AI models (like Llama/Mistral) by expanding “virtual VRAM”
- Gaming Flexibility: Potentially smoother gameplay with higher-resolution textures (results vary)
- NPU vs. GPU Wars: While NPUs handle light AI, complex tasks still need GPU muscle – now with more memory
How It Works
| Feature | Intel Shared GPU Override | AMD Variable Graphics Memory |
|---|---|---|
| Target Hardware | Core Ultra integrated graphics | Ryzen 7040/8040/Strix APUs |
| Primary Use Case | AI/LLM acceleration | Gaming + AI |
| Key Benefit | Host larger local AI models | Higher-res textures in games |
| Performance Impact | Can slow games if over-allocated | Same caveat |
Real-World Implications
- AI Enthusiasts:
- Offload 7B-13B parameter LLMs entirely to GPU memory
- Faster response times for local Copilot+ features
- Gamers:
- Possible FPS gains in VRAM-heavy titles (e.g., Hogwarts Legacy)
- ⚠️ Risk of reduced performance if games overload textures
- Creators:
- Faster Premiere Pro rendering with complex effects
If you have Intel Core Ultra and are doing AI, you're going to want to update to latest Intel Arc driver… because this pic.twitter.com/4BlTqW1RCo
— bobduffy 🖱️🎨 (@bobduffy) August 14, 2025
How to Enable It
- Install latest Intel Arc Graphics drivers (31.0.101.5596+)
- Open Intel Graphics Command Center
- Navigate: System > Shared GPU Memory
- Adjust slider (default: 0.5GB-8GB based on RAM)
The Fine Print
- RAM Tradeoff: Steals from system memory (16GB+ recommended)
- Discrete GPUs Unaffected: Only for integrated Arc graphics
- NPU Limitations: Intel’s NPU maxes out at ~10 TOPS – insufficient for heavy LLMs
Industry Arms Race
This move escalates the integrated graphics war:
- AMD’s VGM launched May 2024 for gaming
- Intel counters with AI-focused implementation
- Both companies now allow manual VRAM control
Also, Read
- Intel Quietly Launches Core 5 120 & 120F – Familiar Tech, New Name
- NVIDIA’s China-Only RTX 5090D V2 – Same Price, Less VRAM
- Dual-Stacked Cache Wars – AMD & Intel Leak Next-Gen CPUs
The Bottom Line
Intel’s update transforms Core Ultra laptops into capable AI workstations. For local LLM users, it’s a free upgrade; for gamers, experiment cautiously. As AI goes local, controlling virtual VRAM becomes as crucial as clock speeds.