Intel Core Ultra Series 3 Panther Lake CPU Launch Confirmed for CES 2026 with 18A Process Tech

Intel confirms the official launch of its next-gen Panther Lake 'Core Ultra Series 3' CPUs at CES 2026, featuring new 18A process technology and AI.
Intel Core Ultra Series 3 Panther Lake CPU Launch Confirmed for CES 2026 with 18A Process Tech

CES 2026 Panther Lake 'Core Ultra Series 3' CPU Launch

Intel has now established the worldwide launch plans for its next-generation processors, codenamed Panther Lake, for the first week of January at CES 2026 in Las Vegas. The new series, to be known as Intel® Core™ Ultra Series 3, constitutes an important launch for the company, being the first with production based on the cutting-edge 18A process technology.

Panther Lake Launch Event and Livestream

The main launch festivity, as expected, is slated for January 5, 2026:

  • What: Launch Event Livestream for the Intel® Core™ Ultra Series 3 Processors.
  • Who: Hosted by Jim Johnson, Senior VP and GM of Intel's Client Computing Group.
  • When: Monday, January 5, at 3 PM (Pacific Time).

The presentation will showcase the next generation of Intel-powered PCs, edge solutions, and new AI experiences enabled by the Panther Lake architecture.

Panther Lake Key Architectural Improvements

Expected Panther Lake CPU generations will bring substantial improvements to various domains such as:

  • New P-core and E-core architecture.
  • Celestial architecture for the integrated Xe3 GPU.
  • A 5th-generation neural processing unit for enhanced on-device AI.

The naming convention will also change for certain SKUs to 'Core Ultra X'.

Intel AI and Edge Sessions at CES 2026

Intel will have several technology sessions devoted to Artificial Intelligence beyond the announcement on January 5, 2026:

  • 9:00 a.m. - 9:40 a.m. PST: Scaling AI in the Real World: The Infrastructure Breakthrough
  • 10:00 a.m. - 10:40 a.m. PST: Agents Unleashed: Turning Every PC into an AI Powerhouse
  • 11:00 a.m. - 11:40 a.m. PST: The Edge Awakens: Why Agentic AI Will Reshape Everything

Intel Tech Showcase Information

At the Intel Technology Showcase, participants will be able to experience devices powered by the new processors. The showcase will be held at the Venetian Hotel, Delfino Ballroom, Level 4, from:

  • Monday, January 5: 3:45 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.
  • Tuesday, January 6: 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
  • Wednesday, January 7: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
  • Thursday, January 8: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

CES 2026 will see the mainstream debut of Panther Lake, wherein the show floor is expected to present a multitude of retail devices from laptops to handhelds.

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