At CES 2026, Intel unveiled the Core Ultra Series 3, the first AI PC platform built with 18A technology, which Intel says is the best process in the world.
The Series 3 will offer a new class of Intel Core Ultra X9 and X7 processors, according to the company. Flagship Ultra Series 3 devices will provide up to 16 CPU cores, 12 efficiency cores and 50 NPU tops, offering up to 60 per cent better multithread performance, more than 77 per cent faster gaming performance and up to 27 hours of battery life.
This is a comparison to Lunar Lake with an Intel Core Ultra X 388H vs. Intel Core Ultra 9 288V using Cinbench, Geomean and more. It’s worth noting that Intel is comparing its Lunar Lake V series, designed for AI, to its Panther Lake H series, which is more gaming and creative-focused, which isn’t exactly apples to apples. MobileSyrup did a deep dive on the company’s H, V and HX SKUs last year.
This SOC also provides up to 80 total TOPS, up to 120 GPU TOPS, and up to 95GB RAM.
Pre-orders for the first laptops powered by the Intel Core Ultra Series 3 start tomorrow, January 6, with additional designs coming throughout the first quarter of the year. The Intel Core Ultra Series 3 will be adopted by more than 200 designs from partners globally.
