Highlights from Intel’s keynote include the introduction of the latest Intel Core X-series processors, a Core-i9 Extreme edition, a demonstration of the power of Intel Optane memory, and examples of Compute Card solutions.
The big hardware news is the Intel Core X-series – The Extreme Edition i9 is a brute of a processor with up to 18 cores and 36 hyper-threads (coming soon) to deliver the world’s first teraflop desktop CPU. But it does not stop there – quad-channel memory, and 44 lanes of PCIe 3.0 directly connected to the CPU means faster access to SSD, multiple graphics cards, and Thunderbolt 3 devices.
The Core X series will also include new Core i5 and i7 models and will require a new X299 support chipset and LGA 2066 socket – it will be fully Intel Optane compatible. The fact sheet is here.
Gregory Bryant, senior vice president and general manager of the Client Computing Group, said, “The Intel Core X-series processor family introduces a series of firsts that reflect the extreme performance we are delivering. This family includes Intel’s first teraflop desktop CPUs, a prime example of just how much raw compute these processors can handle. We’re also introducing the entirely new Intel Core i9 processor, representing the highest performance for advanced gaming, VR and content creation.”
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Bryant said, “We will have more to say about the 8th Gen Intel Core processor in the future but it’s exciting to share that in the latest testing, we’re seeing a performance improvement of more than 30% over the 7th Gen Intel Core processor.”
Bryant also announced updates to the Intel Compute Card – the minuscule 94.5 x 55 x 5mm card include an Intel SoC, memory, storage and wireless connectivity with flexible I/O options and fits into a Dock. Shipment via OEMs will start in August 2017. He said, “The applications are endless – smart screens, interactive appliances, smart factories and more.”
He spoke on VR saying, “Nowhere are amazing experiences more apparent than with VR, and I’m particularly proud of the work we’ve done to enable the first open vsports tournament, The Unspoken VR Tournament. We’re also pushing VR forward, even more, today with a new collaboration with HTC. We will be working together to leverage Intel’s WiGig technology to create a VR accessory that allows Vive customers to get high-fidelity, low-latency, immersive VR experiences without the wire.
He spoke on Intel Optane saying, “We have seen overwhelming support from ecosystem partners resulting in more than 130 Intel Optane memory-ready motherboards, as well as systems from OEMs and systems integrators. Later this year, we will be sharing more.
Finally, he spoke of new devices that Intel was enabling like ASUS new announcements (iTWire article here). He said, “In the spirit of ongoing innovation, we’re pleased to show off new Intel-powered devices from Acer, Dell, Huawei, HP, Lenovo, and MSI, and preview a new device from Asus. Code-named “Kukuna,” this super thin, light and stylish 2 in 1 from Asus is a great example of an always connected PC, offering amazing Intel performance and connectivity inside. The always connected PC is a category we predict will grow over time due to its no-compromising nature: It gives the best performance, full Windows experiences, connectivity and long battery life in amazing, mobile designs.”