Intel is not planning any recalls or sales stopage

Earlier this week, Intel announced that a patch would be released in mid-August to fix the cause of the increased voltage in its 13th and 14th generation CPUs. There was already a lot of information about this – but Intel has only now revealed some things upon request.

Intel confirms permanent damage

Intel recently confirmed that a patch for the increased voltages in its 13th and 14th generation desktop processors is not enough to repair CPUs that are already damaged. Instead, affected processors must be replaced. This is nothing new so far. An Intel spokesperson confirmed that the patch can only prevent future damage, but not fix existing damage, and has now commented on the Online magazine The Verge more accurate.

No recalls or sales stops

Intel is not planning a proper recall or a halt to sales of the affected chips. There has also been no confirmation of a possible warranty extension. However, these measures would be important to restore trust in the company – especially since Intel cannot ensure that those affected will receive the right help. The company has not provided any estimates on the number of affected chips and has not yet explained why sales will continue until the problems have been fully resolved.

Exchange starts

The Verge also wanted to know what, if anything, customers can do to slow or stop the degradation before the microcode update. Intel only recommends contacting customer support if you experience symptoms of instability in these cases. Customers whose return material requests (RMA) were previously rejected should contact them again. It remains unclear how Intel will proactively inform affected users – or if that will happen at all.

Key statements from Intel

• 13th and 14th generation processors with 65W or more base power may be affected by increased voltages.
• Intel continues to work on validating and resolving reported instability scenarios.
• Users should contact Intel Customer Support if instability symptoms occur.
• The patch, which will be released in mid-August, is intended to prevent future damage.
• Affected CPUs must be replaced as damage is irreversible.

Intel is continuing to investigate the causes of the instability of the 13th and 14th generation processors. It remains to be seen whether recalls or a warranty extension will be issued. The planned patch and BIOS update should prevent future damage. In the meantime, users are advised to use Intel’s default performance profiles and update their motherboard BIOS to avoid possible “invisible” damage.