Intel has just announced the successor to their Sandy Bridge architecture. The Intel 4th Gen Core processors with Iris Graphics afford devices a huge leap in graphics processing power when compared to its predecessors. This is of particular importance to Ultrabooks, as Iris Graphics allow unprecedented 3D performance without the need for a discrete graphics card. Iris gives users up to double the 3D performance when compared against today’s fastest mobile Intel Graphics solutions. This brings high-level visuals to today’s Ultrabooks, Notebooks and Desktop All-in-one PCs.
When compared with the previous, 3rd, generation Core processors, Intel’s Iris Graphics gives much improved 3D performance. Iris Users will see a twofold graphics increase over the older Intel HD Graphics for the high-performing U-series Ultrabook Processors. H-series processors will see a similar increase in 3D performance when compared against Intel Iris Pro graphics and High Speed Memory. When compared against desktops running R-series processors, Intel Iris Pro graphics show a 3x performance boost. This allows users, particularly those who own Ultrabooks, to not only use their devices for more intensive video and photo editing, but also gaming on the go, without the need for a huge gaming laptop.
Apart from 3D visuals, Intel Iris graphics also delivers greater photo and video editing performance through features such as Intel Quick Sync Video technology, MJPEG acceleration, 4K UltraHD display resolution, collage mode display, OpenCL, DX11.1, OpenGL4.1 and DX extensions. The 4th Gen Intel Core Processors offer integrated on-package EDRAM memory, the ability to output to three screens, enhanced 4k support and improved MPEG encoding.
Intel Iris and Iris Pro graphics, along with their current Intel HD graphics offerings, give manufacturers a greater number of setups to cater to different markets, and allows users greater choice when it comes to choosing a device catered to their needs. Intel said in a conference call earlier this week that while Intel Iris Graphics isn’t really trying to achieve “Perfect” gaming, it is certainly much greater than current offerings, even those that draw more power.
The announcement is great news for gamers on the go, as well as those who seek to have much improved graphics performance without having to worry about the bulk and power draw of a mobile gaming rig. Stay tuned, we’ve been promised some review units as soon as they are available, and we’ll be putting them through their paces.