News about Intel’s next-generation Panther Lake-H series processors has surfaced again, with the latest leaks highlighting both naming changes and performance specs. According to reports, Intel plans to introduce a new “Ultra X” naming convention for Panther Lake-H, including Core Ultra X5, Ultra X7, and Ultra X9 SKUs — signaling another rebrand strategy shift for Team Blue.
Panther Lake is positioned as one of Intel’s most important product generations, being the first to leverage the Intel 18A process node and a redesigned heterogeneous core architecture. Earlier reports suggest it will feature Cougar Cove P-cores, Darkmont E-cores, and low-power LP-E cores (potentially Skymont), alongside an integrated Xe3 GPU (Celestial architecture) and a next-gen NPU engine for enhanced AI workloads.
Rumored SKUs and Specifications #
Leaked documents suggest possible SKUs include:
- Ultra X9 388H – Flagship model with 12 Xe3 GPU cores and clock speeds up to 5.1 GHz.
- Ultra X7 368H / 358H – Performance-focused with stronger integrated graphics.
- Ultra X5 338H – Mid-range option aimed at mainstream laptops.
Key configuration options may include:
- 4P+8E+4LP-E cores + 12 Xe3 GPU cores, TDP: 25W (PL1) / 45W (PL2).
- 4P+8E+4LP-E cores + 4 Xe3 GPU cores.
- 4P+8E cores + 4 GPU cores (without LP-E).
For ultra-portable designs, the Panther Lake-U series could feature:
- 4P+4LP-E+4 Xe3 GPU (15–45W).
- 2P+4LP-E+4 Xe3 GPU (15–45W).
This tiered lineup aims to address both high-performance mobile workstations and thin-and-light laptops.
Market Strategy #
Intel’s evolving branding — shifting from “Core i” to “Core Ultra,” and now to Ultra X (X5/X7/X9) — may confuse consumers, but it also mirrors the tiered naming schemes familiar in the GPU market (e.g., 60/70/90 tiers). The move could help clarify performance levels across SKUs.
As Intel’s first 18A node CPU family, Panther Lake-H represents a pivotal step forward in process technology and architecture. With its mix of P-cores, E-cores, LP-E cores, Xe3 GPU, and AI NPU, it is designed to meet the performance and efficiency demands of the next generation of laptops.
Intel is expected to announce official details later this month, where it may confirm whether the Ultra X branding will stick and how the SKUs will be positioned. For those tracking the laptop CPU market, Panther Lake could mark a defining shift in Intel’s mobile strategy.