One of the novel features of the Core Ultra 200V or code-named Lunar Lake is the integration of on-package memory, similar to Apple’s M-series chips. This approach has the advantage of reducing footprint and minimizing data transmission distance between the CPU and memory.
However, Intel’s CEO Pat Gelsinger mentioned in a recent earnings call that this architecture will be exclusive to Lunar Lake only. Future chipsets like Panther Lake and Nova Lake will revert to using off-package memory.
The reason behind Intel’s decision to switch back to off-package memory is the cost implication of embedding 16/32GB of memory into the chip package, which may not be as cost-effective as procuring memory separately. This approach also aligns better with the flexibility needs of laptop manufacturers who may require customizable memory solutions.
Gelsinger highlighted that while Lunar Lake was originally designed as a niche product, the rising popularity of AI PCs has expanded its market to become a mass-produced chipset, impacting Intel’s profit margins.
Source: Tom’s Hardware
TLDR: Intel’s Lunar Lake chipset introduces on-package memory but future iterations will revert to off-package memory to address cost and flexibility concerns in the changing AI PC market landscape.
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