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Intel introduced the Core Ultra Series 3 laptop processors at CES 2026 in Las Vegas today. The leading players warn about higher prices as memory costs climb across the industry. Several vendors expect 15% to 20% increases on some models as DRAM and NAND supplies tighten, while manufacturers cite AI demand as a driver.
Intel says Core Ultra Series 3, code-named Panther Lake, is the first client platform built on Intel 18A. The company informed that it designed and manufactured the platform in the United States. Intel also says the chips will be placed in more than 200 laptop designs worldwide.
Intel set a near-term rollout schedule. Pre-orders start January 6, 2026, and systems reach global availability on January 27. Additional designs will arrive through the first half of 2026.
Intel is using the launch to emphasize efficiency gains. Intel describes 18A as an angstrom-class node with a new transistor design and improved power delivery. Intel has also highlighted RibbonFET and PowerVia as the core technologies behind the process.
Intel is introducing new Core Ultra X9 and X7 tiers. Intel says top configurations reach 16 CPU cores, 12 Xe graphics cores, and up to 50 NPU TOPS. Intel has also cited up to 60% higher multithread performance and up to 77% faster gaming than the prior generation.
ASUS announced price adjustments effective January 5 and cited sustained cost pressure on RAM and storage. The notice signals wider pricing tension across the Windows laptop market as component bills rise.
Other PC suppliers have issued similar warnings to customers. Trend-focused supply checks have pointed to Dell and Lenovo preparing price increases of 15% to 20% in early 2026. On an earnings call, Dell’s chief operating officer said he has not seen memory costs rise this fast.
Memory suppliers are steering more output toward high-bandwidth memory for AI servers, which raises margins. IDC calls the shift a zero-sum tradeoff because each wafer used for HBM reduces parts for laptops.
Expanding capacity takes time, so the market may stay tight. Reporting on the supply chain has indicated some factories may not add meaningful output until 2027 or 2028. As a result, OEMs are reviewing system configurations and inventory timing to manage costs.
Pricing pressure could extend beyond premium devices. IDC expects average PC selling prices to rise 6% to 8% in 2026. It also sees weaker shipments. That forecast shapes buying decisions now. Therefore, Intel’s AI laptop push now depends on both performance gains and stable component supply.
Also Read: LG Re-Launched Wallpaper OLED at CES 2026, With Increased Brightness of 4,500 Nits
