Intel Introduces AVX 10.2 “512-bit” Support for Upcoming Desktop “Core” and Server “Xeon” CPUs: Signals Potential Enablement for Nova Lake

Intel is gearing up to introduce early support for AVX 10.2 “512-bit”technology in its upcoming Xeon “Diamond Rapids”and Core “Nova Lake”CPUs, suggesting an exciting leap in processing capabilities.

Future Intel CPUs: Nova Lake and Diamond Rapids to Include AVX 10.2 “512-bit”Support, Enhanced Performance for Xe3 GPUs

Recent developments in Intel’s oneDNN patch v3.9-rc highlight a comprehensive array of updates for the company’s processor and graphics families. Although several of these product lines have yet to launch, Intel is diligently preparing initial support, laying the groundwork for the exciting features we can expect from future CPUs.

AVX-512 technology facilitates expansive 512-bit vector operations, translating to enhanced performance in specific applications and workloads. This capability was previously available in Intel’s Rocket Lake CPUs but was subsequently discontinued in newer CPU generations, including the 10th Gen Comet Lake, 12th Gen Alder Lake, and their successors. The decision stemmed from the introduction of a hybrid architecture, which included Performance (P-Core) and Efficient (E-Core) cores. While the P-Core could execute AVX-512 instructions, the E-Core was unable to do so.

The situation was further complicated by motherboard manufacturers attempting to enable AVX-512 support on these hybrid CPUs through BIOS updates. Ultimately, Intel intervened, citing concerns that allowing broader access to AVX-512 could negatively impact the sales of Xeon processors that featured this capability. Additionally, Intel’s Rocket Lake CPUs experienced performance issues, including high temperatures and significant power consumption, raising concerns regarding their overall efficiency. These factors contributed to Intel’s decision to suppress AVX-512 support in mainstream consumer products, although traces of this technology remained in some Alder Lake chips with unfused AVX-512 hardware.

As the Raptor Lake processors launched, whispers began circulating about the potential reintroduction of AVX-512 support in Intel’s future CPUs. The new AVX10 instruction set architecture, particularly the AVX 10.2 version, was viewed as a critical indicator of when this technology might make a comeback. Current evidence suggests that Intel is indeed working to reintegrate AVX-512 support into its upcoming lineup.

The latest patch hints at the inclusion of AVX 10.2’s 512-bit instructions for not only future Core “Desktop”CPUs but also for upcoming Xeon “Server”CPUs. While specific names have not been confirmed, predictions suggest that the Core family will include Nova Lake and that Diamond Rapids will represent the Xeon family.

Intel Graphics updates: Improved performance on Xe3 architecture, RNN, convolution, and softmax. — Image Source: **uxlfoundation** @ GitHub

The Intel Nova Lake processor lineup will continue to utilize a hybrid architecture, incorporating Coyote Cove P-Cores and Arctic Wolf E-Cores. The anticipated support for AVX 10.2 ISA reinforces expectations that AVX-512 capabilities will also be part of the offering. Notably, the Coral Rapids will become the first Xeon family to reintroduce Symmetric Multi-Threading (SMT) support, further enhancing the performance potential alongside AVX-512.

Additionally, the recent patch highlights the Xe3 graphics architecture, signifying improved performance among Intel GPUs built on this framework. With Panther Lake CPUs planning to leverage Xe3 as integrated graphics, there are also high hopes for “Celestial”as a discrete graphics option in the future.

The resurrection of AVX-512 support, coupled with SMT, marks a pivotal development for Intel. As AMD concurrently delivers these features in both consumer and server-level products with notable efficiency, Intel has the opportunity to regain momentum in the competitive landscape. By focusing on bolstering their product offerings and user support, Intel may very well reclaim the trust of its customer base in the coming years.

News Sources: @InstLatX64, Videocardz

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