Intel is expected to launch Panther Lake, its next-generation AI-focused laptop processor, on Monday at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, marking the first high-volume product built using its new 18A manufacturing process.
Jim Johnson, senior vice president and head of Intel’s PC group, is scheduled to present details of the chip during an evening keynote. Panther Lake features a new transistor architecture and a redesigned power delivery system aimed at boosting efficiency and performance.
The launch is a critical moment for Intel, which previously relied heavily on TSMC to produce its Lunar Lake processors. With Panther Lake, Intel is betting on its own manufacturing comeback as it works to regain PC market share lost to Advanced Micro Devices.
Intel said in October that Panther Lake’s integrated CPU and graphics deliver up to 50% faster performance than Lunar Lake. While the company has faced yield challenges during development, executives say production efficiency has been improving steadily ahead of the 2026 rollout.
Competition will be front and center at CES. AMD CEO Lisa Su is expected to unveil new AI-centric PC chips, while Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang will also take the CES stage.
With multiple chipmakers showcasing AI-powered PCs, Panther Lake’s debut will be closely watched as a test of Intel’s manufacturing strategy and its ability to compete in the rapidly evolving AI PC market.
