Intel submits Battlemage Device IDs to Linux driver
Intel is preparing for the next generation of its Battlemage GPU series, but there was no direct update from Intel on discrete GPUs at Computex. Instead, an update was provided for the Xe2-based Lunar Lake CPU series, which will also utilize this architecture in a smaller form.
Recently, Intel has started working on Battlemage support through initial updates to its display support. This information led us to learn that Battlemage GPUs will not support DisplayPort UHBR20 mode . Now, thanks to recent updates, we know that Intel is developing at least five new GPU devices. These IDs were submitted as a patch for the Xe DRM-Next graphics kernel and appear to be associated with the Battlemage “BMG” GPU series.
Intel Battlemage’s new PCI Device IDs:
- 0xE202
- 0xE20B
- 0xE20C
- 0xE20D
- 0xE212
BMG IDs, Source: Phoronix
For Linux 6.11 the Battlemage support with the Xe kernel graphics driver is remaining behind the xe.force_probe= gate where the accelerated graphics support won’t be enabled by default unless booted with the kernel module option to force probing these Battlemage parts. Steady progress is being made on Battlemage’s open-source Linux driver support and hopefully by the time these graphics cards ship presumably later in 2024, hopefully the Linux driver will be stable.
— Michael Larabel, Phoronix
What should be noted that the appearance of these IDs does not necessarily mean their use by the final product. It’s possible that some or all of these IDs may be reserved for engineering samples or other purposes, rather than being used in the actual Battlemage GPUs.
This list is also relatively short compared to Intel’s efforts with the Alchemist series , which has a significantly longer list of IDs at this point in its (still ongoing?) development cycle. Some rumors suggested Intel may scale down its efforts with Battlemage, for instance, the company may not launch add-in-board (AIB) mobile variants , which could contribute to fewer IDs being used. Furthermore, Intel has not made any claims yet regarding Battlemage coming to workstations (Arc Pro).
Currently, it is expected that Battlemage, aka ARC B-Series will be launched no sooner than Q1, 2025.
Source: Phoronix