Panther Lake chips are already being tested by OEMs

Intel is making progress in the development of its Panther Lake processors. It is said that the first engineering samples of the next generation of chips are already being tested by OEM partners. The market launch is scheduled for the second half of 2025.

Initial tests are underway at OEM partners

Intel has already confirmed that the Panther Lake processors will appear sometime in 2025. Industry observers expect a launch in the second half of the year. Michelle Johnston Holthaus, Interim Co-CEO of Intel, only said at an investor event that Panther Lake will be released in 2025.

but did not explain any further details. But what is known: The new chips, which are expected to come onto the market under the name “Intel Core Ultra 300”, use Intel’s advanced 18A manufacturing process.

Technical advances and manufacturing advantages

The 18A process brings with it two major innovations:

• GAA transistors: Intel is using gate-all-around transistors for the first time
• BSPDN: Implementation of a backside power delivery network

In the latter, the metal layer for the power supply is located on the back of the transistors. This is intended to reduce manufacturing complexity and improve performance. Even though the planned market launch is still a long time away, the first units are said to have already been delivered to selected OEM partners. It is not unusual for the partners to have a long lead time.

These early test samples, internally referred to as ES0, mark an important milestone in development. Eight manufacturers were able to, according to the new report from Golem already successfully testing the chips for the first time. This indicates a promising state of development and gives hope for a planned market launch. Intel plans to produce the majority of Panther Lake chips in its own factories again.

According to previous statements by former CEO Pat Gelsinger, more than 70 percent of production will take place internally. This promises financial benefits for the company.