MSI Launches Intel PR5 BIOS Update Featuring Microcode 0x114 and ME Firmware 19.0.0.1854 v2.2 for Z890 Motherboards

Intel has initiated the rollout of the Planned Release 5 BIOS, enhancing some MSI Z890 motherboards to optimize gaming performance.

Key Updates: MSI MEG Z890 ACE and MPG Z890 Carbon WiFi

Recent BIOS updates are now being distributed for the Z890 chipset, specifically tailored to enhance stability and optimize gaming performance for Intel’s Core Ultra Series 2 processors. Among the notable upgrades is the ME Firmware 1854 v2.2, which is available on select MSI Z890 motherboards as part of the new Intel Planned Release 5 (PR5) initiative. This update includes the microcode 0x114.

The introduction of Microcode 0x114 in the PR5 BIOS aims to deliver further optimizations that were noticeably absent in the previous PR4. However, quantifiable performance improvements are yet to be documented, as the Intel PR5 BIOS is still relatively rare among Z890 motherboards. Currently, only a handful of manufacturers have made this BIOS version available for a few specific Z890 models.

Current MSI Motherboard Updates

For MSI users, the two models benefiting from this upgrade are the MEG Z890 ACE and MPG Z890 Carbon Wi-Fi. Notably, other models, including the flagship MEG Z890 GODLIKE, have not yet received this BIOS update in their support sections. The current BIOS version, labeled ‘7E22v1A41’, was released on December 27th and has a file size of 9.98 MB.

MSI 7E22v1A41 BIOS version — Image Source: MSI

The previous BIOS version, ‘7E22v1A4’, was released on December 25th and included support for Intel’s PR4 alongside the microcode 0x114. However, it appears that this version was not entirely refined. Speculation suggests that Intel may introduce even newer versions of the ME firmware post-1854 v2.2 in January, as some users have observed updates beyond this level. Regardless, reports from users indicate that no significant gaming performance gains have been experienced thus far.

Customer Expectations and Future Updates

Prospective performance enhancements may be limited, raising concerns for consumers who invested in the Intel Core Ultra 200 series processors under the impression that superior gaming performance would be achieved, as highlighted in independent reviews. The discrepancy between expected and actual performance outcomes could lead to consumer disappointment.