Intel Launches Core Ultra Series 3: The First AI PC Platform on 18A Node

Intel officially launched the Intel Core Ultra Series 3 processors at CES 2026, marking the debut of the first AI PC platform built on the advanced Intel 18A process technology. Codenamed Panther Lake, these chips are engineered to redefine mobile computing through superior performance, efficiency, and a significant leap in graphics capabilities. The launch signals a major step forward for domestic semiconductor manufacturing, as these chips are produced using the most advanced node in the United States. Intel Newsroom

A central theme of the launch is the move toward agentic actioning. Unlike previous generations that focused on simple AI assistance, the Series 3 enables autonomous AI agents to perform multi-step tasks directly on the device. This on-device processing ensures lower latency and greater data privacy by reducing reliance on cloud-based servers. Intel expects this to be the most broadly adopted AI PC platform the company has ever delivered.

The Series 3 represents a manufacturing milestone as the first consumer product using the 18A node, developed under the strategy to deliver five nodes in four years. This new process provides a substantial boost in performance per watt, allowing for desktop-class gaming on thin and light laptops without the need for heavy external hardware. Improved battery life remains a priority, ensuring that high-performance workloads do not compromise portability for mobile users.

Intel showcased the real-world impact of these processors through the RoBee humanoid robot by Oversonic Robotics. Previously requiring discrete GPUs for navigation and AI training, the robot now runs entirely on the Core Ultra Series 3 edge processors. The advanced architecture allows the machine to manage navigation, perception, and gesture recognition simultaneously while maintaining safe, local processing without a cloud connection. Intel Newsroom Article The new mobile processors are slated to hit the market on January 27, 2026. They will be available through online retailers and global OEM partners, supported by an extensive ecosystem of software and hardware providers. This rollout marks the beginning of a new phase for AI-enabled experiences across retail, gaming, and content creation platforms worldwide.