MSI Launches Updated BIOS with Intel Microcode 0x116 for Z890 & B860 Motherboards: Promises Enhanced Reliability and Overclocking Capabilities

MSI has distinguished itself as the inaugural vendor to roll out Intel’s latest microcode 0x116 across a range of LGA 181 motherboards.

BIOS Update for MSI Z890 and B860 Models: Elevating CPU Reliability

In an unexpected turn of events, Intel appears to have been diligently refining its BIOS updates for the LGA 1851 platform. Following a series of updates in recent months, industry observers speculated that Intel’s previously announced performance enhancements had stagnated. However, the latest microcode release signals a renewed effort to bolster CPU reliability.

This recent microcode patch has been formally distributed to MSI, which promptly incorporated it into a new BIOS update. Currently, a substantial number of Z890 and B860 chipset motherboards are eligible for this upgrade, featuring the enhanced Microcode 0x116. For those unfamiliar with these updates, they are designed to enhance gaming performance for Intel’s Core Ultra Series 2, also known as Core Ultra 200S processors.

The previous iteration, Microcode 0x114, was released in December 2024 but couldn’t fulfill Intel’s performance benchmarks or user expectations. Since the introduction of these processors, Intel has been on a mission to rectify performance issues through continuous updates, and the launch of this new microcode reflects that ongoing commitment.

MSI microcode 0x116 BIOS — Image Source: MSI

The release notes indicate that when users of MSI Z890 and B860 motherboards upgrade to the newest BIOS, Microcode 0x116 will become active. Although the precise benefits of this microcode remain somewhat ambiguous, the BIOS update is advertised as enhancing the reliability of non-K Intel Core Ultra 200S CPUs and improving memory compatibility, as well as facilitating better overclocking capabilities.

At present, not all MSI Z890 and B860 models are compatible with the BIOS upgrade that includes the microcode 0x116 patch—approximately half of the models have this capability. The platform is now slated for additional testing to assess the specific impacts of the 0x116 patch. While there may not be substantial advancements in gaming or raw performance, it is prudent to remain patient for further evaluations.

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