Intel releases new processor names – delete the “i”

About 15 years ago, Intel introduced a new naming scheme when the few-year-old Core name joined the now familiar model designations i3, i5, and i7. The latter was first introduced and a few years later the i9 was also introduced. Now Intel is ditching the “i” for good and welcoming a new naming scheme.

Starting with the Core 14000 “Meteor Lake”, Intel has completely discontinued i3, i5, i7, and i9 production. The same numbers will remain, but they will stand alone instead. For example, Core i7 will only become Core 7. This applies to all consumer models and the change applies partly to the name of the product itself, and partly to descriptions, graphics and badges.

Performance-oriented models get the Ultra extension

At the same time that the “i” is disappearing, Intel is taking the opportunity to introduce another addition, in the form of the Ultra. Processors in the 5, 7 and 9 families should be equipped with this name, to make it clear that it relates to the higher performance segment from Intel. The extension ends after Core, then “Intel Core Ultra 7 ## xx” could be an example, where the last symbols are changed to the current series number combination.

In terms of change, Intel should also stop printing generation in marketing materials. Instead of calling, say, “12th Gen Core i7,” it should instead be indicated only by the model number number. It appears that suffixes such as “K” to denote many unlocked items remain and are likely identical models ending under the Ultra branding. However, Intel has not yet revealed exactly what it should be compatible with.

The name change is intended to make Intel’s family of processors easier to understand and navigate, as well as a clearer division between enthusiast and simpler models. In addition, Intel wants to push it further with “Meteor Lake”, there is a major shift in terms of architecture, design and manufacturing technology.