Intel Launches Core Ultra Series 3 on 18A Process Rumored for Apple's Low-Cost MacBook

Intel unveiled its Core Ultra Series 3 processors at CES 2026 this week, officially launching the first commercial platform built on its 18A manufacturing process. The company describes the new node as the most advanced semiconductor technology ever developed and manufactured in the United States.



The rollout of 18A serves as a real-world proof point for Intel's foundry ambitions, putting the technology into consumer hands as supply chain reports suggest Apple is closely evaluating the process for its own silicon. Analysts have noted that Apple signed a non-disclosure agreement to access Intel's 18AP process design kit, with predictions that the foundry could begin shipping lower-end M-series chips as early as 2027.


Intel says the Series 3 lineup will power more than 200 laptop designs this year. At the high end, the company introduced new Core Ultra X9 and X7 processors aimed at heavy multitasking. The top configurations feature up to 16 CPU cores and 12 Xe-cores for graphics. According to Intel, these specs deliver up to a 60 percent improvement in multithread performance and up to 77 percent faster gaming speeds compared to the previous Lunar Lake generation.



Efficiency was a major focus for this release. Intel claims the new architecture can support up to 27 hours of battery life during video playback, a metric that directly targets the battery life advantage traditionally held by Apple silicon MacBooks. Neural processing also sees an upgrade, with the chips offering up to 50 NPU TOPS to handle on-device AI workloads.

While these specific processors are destined for Windows laptops, their performance will be watched closely as a barometer for Intel's manufacturing execution. If the 18A node meets yield and performance targets, it could open the door for Intel to secure orders for non-Pro iPhone chips later in the decade, offering Apple a way to diversify its supply chain beyond TSMC.

Pre-orders for the first consumer laptops using Core Ultra Series 3 processors begin January 6, with global availability starting January 27.