Farewell to the Lowercase “i”
Intel has announced a significant change in its CPU branding strategy, marking the end of an era for the familiar “i” prefix in Intel CPU numbers. This change comes after 15 years of using the “Core i” branding, which started with the first i7 in 2008. The new branding scheme will split Intel’s CPU line-up into two segments: Core and Core Ultra.
Simplification and Confusion
Intel’s decision to revamp its branding is driven by feedback from everyday users and OEMs (original equipment manufacturers) who build computers with Intel CPUs. Many found the old branding confusing, particularly the lowercase “i” prefix. Intel aims to simplify its branding, but the new scheme may introduce new complexities.
Core and Core Ultra: What Do They Mean?
The Core and Core Ultra segments will replace the “Core i” branding. Core CPUs will be designated as Core 3, 5, or 7, while Core Ultra CPUs will be branded as Core Ultra 5, 7, or 9. The Core Ultra designation is intended for gamers and content creators, while the Core branding will be geared towards productivity and general use.
A New Naming Scheme
Intel is also introducing a new naming scheme with shortened model numbers. The first digit will indicate the generation, the second digit will indicate relative performance level, and the third digit will indicate features like clock speed or PCIe lanes. This change aims to simplify the naming scheme, but the meaning of the numbers 3, 5, 7, and 9 may still be unclear.
The End of an Era: Intel’s CPU Branding Overhaul (Continued)
A Shift Away from Generation-Based Naming
Intel’s new branding scheme is part of a larger effort to move away from generation-based naming. In the past, each new architecture was accompanied by a broad lineup of CPUs, from Celeron to Core i9. The specific chip you chose depended on your intended use case. However, Intel believes that future chip architectures will be more purpose-built, making generation-based naming less relevant.
The Demise of Pentium and Celeron
In addition to the Core i rebranding, Intel has also retired the Pentium and Celeron brands. Entry-level offerings will now be simply branded as “Intel Processors.” This change aims to simplify the naming scheme, but it may lead to confusion among consumers who are familiar with the Pentium and Celeron brands.
OEM Feedback and Market Research
Intel’s decision to revamp its branding was influenced by feedback from OEMs and market research. Many consumers found the old branding confusing, particularly the “generation” language (e.g., “14th gen”). Intel’s research showed that the average consumer doesn’t understand what these terms mean, making it difficult for them to make informed purchasing decisions.
The Future of Intel’s Branding
Intel’s new branding scheme is a significant departure from the familiar “Core i” prefix. While the changes aim to simplify the naming scheme, they may introduce new complexities. As Intel continues to evolve its branding, it will be important to communicate clearly with consumers and OEMs to ensure a smooth transition.
Conclusion
Intel’s CPU branding overhaul marks the end of an era for the “Core i” prefix. The new Core and Core Ultra segments, along with the simplified naming scheme, aim to provide a clearer and more concise way to communicate the capabilities of Intel’s CPUs. However, only time will tell if this change will simplify or complicate the landscape for consumers and OEMs alike.