Intel Unveils Nova Lake, Its Next-Gen CPU Architecture for 2026
Intel has confirmed that its Nova Lake client CPU architecture will launch in 2026, following the debut of Panther Lake in 2025. The announcement was made during the company’s latest earnings call, led by interim co-CEOs Michelle Johnston Holthaus and David Zinsner, after Pat Gelsinger’s recent departure. The duo reassured investors that Intel’s processor roadmap remains on track despite leadership transitions.
Panther Lake, set for a late 2025 release, will be primarily manufactured using Intel’s 18A process, marking a milestone in the company’s five-nodes-in-four-years strategy. However, Nova Lake will continue to rely on a mix of Intel Foundry and external manufacturing, with TSMC likely playing a role. Intel has yet to disclose detailed specifications for Nova Lake, but both upcoming architectures are expected to deliver better performance and cost efficiencies, reinforcing Intel’s position in the competitive CPU market.
Intel’s foundry business is undergoing significant restructuring. Now an independent subsidiary with its own board, Intel Foundry must compete like any other supplier, according to Holthaus. She acknowledged that customer adoption will be a gradual process, with Intel prioritizing a selective, strategic approach to foundry partnerships rather than chasing volume immediately.
Intel also reported continued collaboration with the U.S. government, securing $1.1 billion in CHIPS Act grants in Q4 2024, with another $1.1 billion in early 2025, as part of a total $7.86 billion package.
On the financial side, Intel posted a $100 million loss on $14.3 billion in revenue, a 7% decline year-over-year. Its Client Computing Group recorded $8 billion in revenue, down 9% compared to the previous year, reflecting ongoing market challenges.