New information suggests Intel is moving one of its high-end Nova Lake-S desktop CPUs from 42 to 44 cores, adding more performance cores ahead of the Core Ultra 400 series launch, following earlier details on the Intel Core Ultra 200S Plus desktop CPUs.
According to the Jaykihn, the updated configuration features 16 performance cores, 24 efficiency cores, and 4 low-power efficiency cores. Earlier reports listed the same chip with 14 P-cores, so this revision adds two additional performance cores while keeping the rest of the layout unchanged.
The processor uses a dual compute tile design, splitting cores across two tiles. Moving to 16 P-cores improves balance across both tiles, as the previous 14-core layout resulted in an uneven distribution per tile.
Intel is expected to combine Coyote Cove performance cores with Arctic Wolf efficiency cores, aiming for better multi-threaded performance in desktop workloads.
Dual-tile variants are expected to include up to 288MB of bLLC, while single-tile models may feature up to 144MB. The larger cache pool is expected to reduce latency and improve gaming and data-heavy workloads.
Current leaks point to four main configurations in the Nova Lake-S lineup, expanding on earlier reports about the Intel Nova Lake power spike leak. These include a flagship 52-core dual-tile model, the updated 44-core variant, and smaller 28-core and 24-core single-tile versions. Intel may also extend bLLC support to select non-K models, expanding the feature beyond flagship SKUs.
Compared to Arrow Lake-S, which tops out at 24 cores, Nova Lake-S marks a significant jump in both core count and cache capacity for desktop platforms.
The platform is expected to move to a new LGA1954 socket with 900-series chipsets, replacing LGA1851 used in current Arrow Lake systems, as outlined in the Intel 900-series chipset. Intel has indicated that this socket may support multiple generations.
Nova Lake-S desktop CPUs are expected to launch in the second half of 2026, with broader availability potentially extending into early 2027.
If this report true, the move to 44 cores shows Intel pushing toward higher core counts and bigger cache designs in its next-gen desktop platform.
Intel Nova Lake-S: Key Specifications
| Architecture | Nova Lake-S (Core Ultra 400 series) |
| Core Count | Up to 44 cores |
| Core Layout | 16P + 24E + 4 LP-E |
| Previous Config | 14P + 24E + 4 LP-E (42 cores) |
| Design | Dual compute tile |
| Cache | Up to 288MB bLLC (dual-tile) |
| Other SKUs | 52-core, 28-core, 24-core variants |
| CPU Cores | Coyote Cove (P), Arctic Wolf (E) |
| Socket | LGA1954 |
| Chipset | 900-series |
| Launch Window | 2H 2026 |
Source: Jaykihn
