Intel’s Naming Revolution: “Core Ultra X” Tier May Debut with Panther Lake
Intel appears to be preparing another significant shift in its processor branding strategy with rumors suggesting the company will introduce a new “Core Ultra X” premium tier alongside its upcoming Panther Lake mobile processors. This new classification—potentially including Core Ultra X5, X7, and X9 models—would represent Intel’s most substantial branding evolution since the introduction of the Core Ultra naming convention last year.
The rumors, which have been circulating for several weeks, gained credibility when hardware leaker HXL confirmed the new naming scheme. While details remain scarce, the move would further segment Intel’s mobile processor lineup, potentially creating a clear hierarchy between standard Core Ultra and these new premium X-series models.
What We Know About Panther Lake
The rumors coincide with emerging details about Intel’s Panther Lake architecture, which is expected to feature a refined core configuration and significant graphics improvements. One specific model mentioned by leakers is the Core Ultra 7 358H, which reportedly features:
- 4 Performance cores
- 8 Efficient cores
- 4 Low-Power Efficient cores
- 12 Xe3 graphics cores
This configuration suggests Intel is continuing to optimize its hybrid architecture approach while making substantial improvements to integrated graphics performance with the next-generation Xe3 architecture.
Core i3/5/7/9
— HXL (@9550pro) October 1, 2025
Core Ultra 5/7/9
Core Ultra X5/7/9←New
The Mystery of the “X” Designation
The most intriguing aspect of these rumors is what the “X” designation actually represents. Several possibilities exist:
- Enhanced GPU configurations with more Xe3 execution units
- Advanced NPU capabilities for next-generation AI workloads
- Higher power limits for premium ultraportable devices
- Premium feature sets not available in standard Core Ultra models
Without official confirmation from Intel, the exact differentiation between standard Core Ultra and the new X-series remains speculative. However, the timing suggests these processors would target the premium laptop segment where additional graphics power and AI capabilities could provide tangible benefits.
Ultra X7 358H= 4P + 8E + 4LPE + 12Xe3？
— 孤城Hardware (@realVictor_M) September 16, 2025
The Bigger Picture: Intel’s Branding Evolution
This potential move continues Intel’s ongoing effort to simplify—or potentially further complicate—its processor branding. The transition from “Core i” to “Core Ultra” was already a significant shift, and adding an “X” tier could either provide clearer segmentation or create additional consumer confusion, depending on how Intel positions and markets the new classification.
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- Intel Confirms GPU Business Continues Despite NVIDIA Partnership, Calls Collaboration “Complementary”
What’s Next
The full details about Panther Lake and potentially the new Core Ultra X branding are expected to be revealed soon, with the Intel Tech Tour embargo lifting on October 9. Until then, these rumors should be treated as speculative, though the multiple independent sources suggesting the same naming scheme lend them credibility.