Core Ultra 200K in October more likely, Intel speeds up QS availability
Before the final silicon leaves the fab, Intel CPUs go through several stages required for chip testing, analysis, and fine-tuning. Often, leaks are based on early silicon versions, such as ES1 or ES2 (Engineering Samples), which may not represent the final silicon’s performance. These versions often have different clock speeds and various features enabled or disabled. Enthusiasts typically focus on QS (Qualification Sample) versions, which closely resemble the retail product’s performance.
The upcoming generation of LGA-1851-based desktop CPUs, known as Core Ultra 200, is currently in the ES2 phase, with partners awaiting the QS units. Originally planned for WW40 (September 30 – October 6), the QS (Qualification Sample) seeding has moved to WW34-36 (August 19 – September 8). This strongly supports the claims that the Core Ultra 200K should launch in October.
Intel Core Ultra 200K launch schedule
- 200K QS :
WW40 (September 30 – October 6)➡️ WW34-36 (August 19 – September 8) 2024 - 200K Retail : October 2024
- 200 non-K QS : WW49 (December 2 – December 15) 2024
- 200 non-K Retail: January 2025
Intel CPU development phases, Source:Intel/WikiChip
This date change has now been confirmed by multiple sources, including Benchlife and Jaykihn:
In the future, there should be more information to confirm whether Arrow Lake’s Intel Core Ultra 2 series processors and 800 series chip motherboards will be launched in October as scheduled.
— Benchlife
This is announced TODAY.
Not a switch from the past I’m reporting on now.— Jaykihn (@jaykihn0) July 13, 2024
Jaykihn also shared a screenshot seemingly showing the updated roadmap with QS sampling date (we cannot confirm the authenticity of this slide):
Intel Arrow Lake QS in WW34 to 36, Source: Jaykihn
This update was reportedly announced yesterday, which means that whichever rumor claimed possible December launch may not be true at all, or only refers to certain SKUs. Worth noting that the Core Ultra 200 series will feature two die designs (8+16) and (6+8), the latter expected to launch with Core Ultra non-K series next year.
Source: Benchlife