Intel is preparing an increase in cores in the mobile HX segment, but with a minimalist iGPU. Direct consequence: a very large CPU design compared to a capped graphics part.
Intel Nova Lake-HX: configurations and positioning
New information attributed to Jaykihn outlines the high-end mobile chips that would succeed the Arrow Lake Refresh HX. The models would target the Core 400HX series, assuming the continuation of the Core 300 branding for Panther Lake. The current calendar leaves nothing until next year at best, with a realistic window rather distant.
Unlike the desktop Nova Lake-S mentioned up to 52 cores (16 P-cores + 32 E-cores), the mobile variant would be more contained: up to 8 P-cores and 16 E-cores. It would also integrate 4 low-consumption E-cores, bringing the total to 28 CPU cores. A substantial size for the HX, although smaller than the S desktop.
Two smaller dies would also be on the program, with 4 P-cores, 8 E-cores and 4 low-power E-cores, or 16 cores in total. No frequency or full GPU details are shared, but previous rumors point to an Xe3/Xe3P mix, and a limit to 2 GPU cores for the family NVL-HX.
Launch window and market context
Intel has just updated the high-end mobile with the Core Ultra 9 290HX and 270HX Plus. As a result, Nova Lake-HX is not expected anytime soon. CES 2027 appears to be the first credible window, in line with the pace of renewal of Intel’s flagship mobile platforms.
The combination of a massive CPU (up to 28 cores including 4 LP-E) and an iGPU limited to 2 cores suggests a strategy oriented towards dedicated dGPUs in HX chassis. Integrators could optimize efficiency by switching light loads to LP-Es and reserving P-cores for sustained peaks, while almost always relying on a discrete graphics card for gaming and creation.
Source : VideoCardz
