Intel’s stronghold on the PC gaming landscape remains intact through its integrated graphics solutions in the majority of PC processors. However, its foothold in the discrete graphics card market has crumbled. Recent findings from Jon Peddie Research reveal that shipments of PC graphics cards surged to 9.5 million units in Q2 2024, reflecting a surprising 9 percent growth compared to Q1. This is noteworthy, particularly given the historical trend that has shown a 7.1 percent decline in shipments during the second quarter over the past decade.
The stark reality, though, is that Intel has lost its presence in the discrete graphics sector, currently controlling a mere 0 percent of the market share. This decline is significant, as it follows a drop from 2 percent a year prior. The market has essentially reverted to a two-horse race: Nvidia dominates with an overwhelming 88 percent market share—up from 80 percent last year—leaving AMD with the remaining 12 percent and entirely excluding Intel.
Jon Peddie, president of JPR, comments on the resilience of the add-in board market, noting unexpected growth in the past four quarters despite seasonal fluctuations. However, the overall figures still indicate a downturn compared to two years ago, highlighting ongoing challenges for manufacturers.
In a somewhat ironic twist, Intel has introduced the Lunar Lake mobile processor, which incorporates a new Xe2 graphics core, and there are aspirations to launch a discrete graphics card under the Battlemage brand. Unfortunately for Intel, the release of Battlemage has been postponed, with an initial 2023 launch date now seeming unlikely. Meanwhile, Nvidia’s upcoming GeForce 5000 series, known as “Blackwell,” is eagerly awaited, presenting additional hurdles for Intel’s potential resurgence in the discrete graphics landscape.