Intel Unveils Core Ultra Series 3 Processors with Groundbreaking 18A Technology
Intel has officially announced its Core Ultra Series 3 processors at CES 2026 on January 5. This marks a significant milestone as the first AI PC platform built on Intel’s cutting-edge 18A process technology—the most advanced semiconductor process ever developed and manufactured in the United States.
The new processors, previously codenamed Panther Lake, promise remarkable performance enhancements. The top-tier Intel Core Ultra X9 and X7 models boast up to 16 CPU cores, 12 Xe-cores, and 50 NPU TOPS. According to Intel, these chips offer up to 60% improved multithread performance and over 77% faster gaming performance compared to the preceding Lunar Lake generation, while providing up to 27 hours of battery life.
Pre-orders for consumer laptops powered by Intel Core Ultra Series 3 processors begin January 6, 2026, with systems available globally starting January 27, 2026. The platform is set to power over 200 PC designs from leading global partners, making it Intel’s most widely adopted AI PC platform ever delivered. For the first time, Series 3 processors are also certified for embedded and industrial use cases at the edge, including:
- Robotics
- Smart cities
- Automation
- Healthcare applications
Source: Intel Press Release