Intel Launches Core Ultra Series 3 CPUs with Arc Graphics at CES 2026

Intel has made a significant announcement at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2026, unveiling its new Core Ultra Series 3 processors. This series represents the first artificial intelligence (AI) personal computer platform developed using Intel’s advanced 18A semiconductor process technology. The Core Ultra Series 3 promises marked enhancements in both performance and graphics capabilities compared to its predecessors.

Key Features of the Core Ultra Series 3

The Core Ultra Series 3 mobile lineup includes the Ultra X9 and X7 processors, which are designed to meet the needs of multitaskers engaged in demanding tasks such as gaming, content creation, and productivity. These high-end models incorporate up to 16 CPU cores, 12 Xe graphics cores, and 50 NPU TOPS. Intel claims that users will experience a significant boost in performance, with improvements of up to 60% in multithread tasks, over 77% faster gaming performance, and an impressive battery life of up to 27 hours.

The series also includes Intel Core processors tailored for mainstream mobile systems. These processors share the foundational architecture of the Core Ultra Series 3, making them suitable for a variety of laptops at more accessible price points.

Performance Enhancements and Availability

The Core Ultra Series 3 chips are certified for commercial applications, showcasing exceptional capabilities in critical edge AI workloads. Intel reports up to 1.9 times higher performance for large language models (LLMs) and up to 4.5 times higher throughput in vision language action (VLA) models. The integration of AI acceleration offers an improved total cost of ownership (TCO) through a single system on chip (SoC) solution, providing a competitive edge over traditional multi-chip CPU and GPU setups.

Pre-orders for laptops featuring the Intel Core Ultra Series 3 processors will commence on January 6, 2026, with general availability expected to roll out globally starting January 27, 2026, depending on the region. Intel has indicated that the Core Ultra Series 3 CPUs will be incorporated into more than 200 laptops from original equipment manufacturer (OEM) partners worldwide. Additionally, edge systems powered by these processors will be available beginning in the second quarter of 2026.

With these advancements, Intel aims to solidify its position in the competitive CPU market and cater to the evolving demands of consumers and businesses alike.