Intel is reportedly preparing to introduce its Core Ultra 400 “Nova Lake-S” desktop processors, marking a basic branding update to the product line. According to reports, the company plans to stagger the release of various Stock Keeping Units (SKUs) rather than launching all models simultaneously.
Processor Architecture and Configurations
The Nova Lake-S processors are structured with multiple compute dies or single dies. These SKUs feature a combination of up to 8 “Coyote Cove” Performance Cores (P-Cores), 16 “Arctic Wolf” Efficiency Cores (E-Cores), and an additional 4 Low Power E-Cores (LPE-Cores) integrated within the I/O die. Depending on the specific model, Intel can configure a single compute die to deliver up to 28 total cores or utilize dual compute dies for a powerful 52-core CPU.
Projected Launch Timeline
The company is expected to debut the lower core count version first, with the higher core density models following later. The initial release segment involves the 28-core “Nova Lake-S” DS version, which is anticipated in the first quarter (Q1) of 2027. For those focused on overclocking performance, the regular “K” SKUs are slated for an early Q2 launch between March and April.
The most powerful desktop chip, featuring dual compute dies and reaching 52 cores, is expected to arrive later. This flagship model is scheduled for consumers sometime between late May and September 2027.
Industry Analysis of Release Schedule
One potential reason cited for this staggered release schedule relates to Intel’s recent shift in manufacturing plans—specifically, bringing the majority of compute tile production back onto the advanced 18A node. As Intel scales up high-volume manufacturing of 18A for its internal requirements, it may require additional time to accumulate a sufficient stock of fully developed compute dies needed for the flagship 52-core SKUs. Given that these top-tier chips necessitate double the number of compute tiles compared to the 28-core designs, production capacity may need extra time to catch up.
The anticipated rollout schedule, as detailed by video sources, includes:
- NVL-S 28C DS: Q1 2027 (late January to March 2027)
- NVL-S 28C K: Q2 2027 (March to April 2027)
- NVL-S 16C and 8C: Q2 2027 (late March to May 2027)
- NVL-S 52C DS: Late May to September 2027
