Just as we were expecting at this time of the year, Intel launched a new lineup of processor that join the 8th generation family. We’re talking about the U-series (code-named Whiskey Lake) and Y-series (code-named Amber Lake); both series are set to bring better connectivity, increased performance and improved battery life.
These two series of CPUs are of course for mobile use, as laptops and 2-in-1s. They do indeed equip an integrated Gigabit Wi-Fi module for the first time, which will deliver up to 12-times faster speeds compared to something like the older Intel Core i5-4200U. In addition to that, we’ll also get an up to 2 times increase in performance over the five-year old i5-4200U and two-digit improvements in web browsing and light content creation compared to the previous generation.
According to Intel, these new CPUs are a leap forward as far as connectivity goes, allowing people to create and consume online content much more quickly. You can for example share 4K or 360-degree video content around 6.5 times faster or stream and play videogames without hiccups. Another neat upgrade will also allow better interactions with voice services on the U-series, meanwhile the Y-series will get improved natural input options like touch and stylus.
The latest 8th Gen Intel Core i7, i5 and i3 (U-series) processors are designed for mobility and connectivity. They feature Gigabit Wi-Fi via integrated Intel Wireless-AC 160 MHz, integrated USB 3.1 and improved Voice Services via dedicated quad-core audio DSP. (Credit: Intel Corporation)
Intel’s 8th Gen Core U-Series (Whiskey Lake) processors comprehend the i7-8565U, i5-8265U and i3-8145U; they’re set to deliver the best performance you can get out of a 15-watt TDP with up to four cores and eight threads. Other features include:
- Integrated Gigabit Wi-Fi with Intel® Wireless-AC for faster sharing, streaming and downloading. Paired with Intel LTE modem options, you’ll be able to be connected at high speeds anywhere you are.
- The new U-series processor bring better performance while also lasting up to 16 hours on a single charge. Well optimized systems can achieve even up to 19.5 hours.
- Amazon Alexa* and Microsoft Cortana* are now fully supported. You can use them to control lighting and temperature of your home, play music and more.
- On U-series CPU it’s now possible to watch 4K UHD content from providers such as Amazon Prime Video*, Netflix*, iQiyi*, Sony Pictures ULTRA* and Vudu*.
- Plus they also support Dolby Vision™ HDR* and Dolby Atmos®* for immersive audio. A great combo to make your PC the best home entertainment player.
- The increased performance will also allow users to play games like “World of Warcraft: Battle for Azeroth”, “World of Tanks.” and a whole lot of other games optimized for Intel-powered PCs.
We then have Intel’s 8th Gen Core Y-Series (Amber Lake Y) processors which include the i7-8500, i5-8200Y and m3-8100Y. These are of course more focused on bringing a smoother experience into super thin and light devices and 2-in-1s. Other neat features on board are:
- Intel Wireless-AC support for Gigabit wireless speeds and eSIM support with Intel’s Gigabit LTE modems, so you can now stream, share or download files seamlessly and reliably.
- Touch and stylus interactions have been improved, which makes it better for creators to sketch, shade and paint with more precision.
- The new CPUs can be equipped on ultra thin-and-light devices with a thickness of less than 7 millimeters and weighing less than 1 pound.
So, when are we getting these two series? Well, according to Intel, they will be available from PC manufacturers beginning this fall, so not too far!