Intel’s new Lakefield chips are all about something revolutionary

It’s the first x86 processor with five cores and that’s just the beginning.

For starters, the Lakefield is the first x86 processor with five cores, it is the first to have heterogenous cores, which are similar to ARM’s big.LITTLE. It is also the first to use 3D stacking technology (Foveros) and the first to have a 4G/LTE modem. (Intel)

Intel launched their new Lakefield processors recently and it seems that Intel has packed in a whole world of tech in them. This Core i3 is a first for many reasons.

For starters, the Lakefield is the first x86 processor with five cores, it is the first to have heterogenous cores, which are similar to ARM's big.LITTLE. It is also the first to use 3D stacking technology (Foveros) and the first to have a 4G/LTE modem.

The Lakefield processors also have the second lowest per core thermal design power (TDP), at an average of 1.4W per core, and one of the highest base-to-turbo frequencies. Essentially, this makes Lakefield one of Intel's most “frugal” processors ever.

Besides these, what's vital is that this chip can support upto four 4K displays at 60Hx (35.4 megapixels overall) - that's 8K resolution. An Intel spokesperson confirmed that it can support two internal and two external displays but the specifics will depend upon the OEM.

And then there is support for six cameras in total with four them being able to operate at the same time (48MP in all).

With all these features packed in, Microsoft might consider it as a cheaper version of the Hololens and other vendors would use for ultra light laptops with long battery life. Also, it could be used in plug computers - like x86 devices that fit on a plug and can connect to monitors.

If laptop vendors follow the same logic as smartphone vendors we could be looking at the end of low-resolution selfie cameras and even cheaper phones could start offering more powerful front cameras.

While expecting 32MP front cameras might be pushing it, but Lakefield processors will be able to deliver good pictures thanks to its imaging capabilities like HDR. Support for multiple cameras also means the ability to generate virtual, 3D avatars in real time and more adept facial recognition.