Intel Sets Desktop CPU Update for Late 2025
Intel plans to put out a new set of its Arrow Lake-S desktop CPUs in the last half of 2025. A report from ZDNet Korea says this update won't bring new core builds, but will boost performance and AI skills, most of all with a stronger NPU for Microsoft's Copilot+.
Main Changes in the Arrow Lake-S Update
This update is set to add some small upgrades:
- Better NPU for AI: The big change is the likely add of the NPU4, first seen in Lunar Lake mobile chips. This new NPU should give 48 TOPS of AI power, more than the 40 TOPS needed for Copilot+ AI PC stuff. This is a big jump from the 13 TOPS NPU3 in the first Arrow Lake desktop chips.
- Faster Clock Rates: With better process on Intel 20A and finer silicon sorting, the updated CPUs should run a bit faster.
- More Efficient: Changes in firmware and tuning should help the CPUs use power better.
What Stays the Same
This update is a step up, not a brand new set. For those who have or plan to get these CPUs, many key things will stay the same:
- Core Build: The CPUs will keep the same Lion Cove P-cores and Skymont E-cores.
- Socket Fit: The update will stick to the LGA 1851 socket, so it works with the current 800-series motherboards. This makes the current setup last longer.
Looking Ahead
The Arrow Lake-S refresh is Intel's way to make its desktops better and keep them useful until the next big design, Nova Lake, is ready to come out in the latter half of 2026 on the Intel 18A node.
With the NPU upgrade to match Copilot+ needs, Intel can say these new chips are ready for AI, meeting a big need in the PC market now. The official name for this refresh—either as part of the Core Ultra 200 group or a new level—has not been shared yet.