Recently, X/Twitter user @harukaze5719 obtained images from Chinese e-commerce platform Taobao which shows several of the upcoming Intel Core Ultra 200 non-K series processors, but there’s one unusual detail from the images: the Core Ultra 5 chips in particular features a different IHS (integrated heat spreader) design.
Intel Core Ultra’s Alternative IHS
The difference lies on the protruded section of the metal lid that conducts the heat: the Core Ultra 5 245 and 225 as seen in the images had the top section shortened that effectively shrinks the contact surface between the CPU and the cooler when it is installed on a PC. Exactly how this affects the thermal and mechanical characteristics of the chip is unknown, but thermals likely won’t be an issue as these chips are designed to run at 65W only.
The reason to opt for a smaller IHS is unknown, but according to Tom’s Hardware – these versions of the CPU originated from Vietnam (with the ‘V’ code etched on the chip), whereas most others with the conventional IHS are labeled ‘L’ that indicates Ireland, including the Core Ultra 7 265 and Core Ultra 9 285 as shown in the post. Additional photos of CPU-Z data shows that the lower-end chips share the same stepping as the higher-end ones, which means there should be no change under the hood aside from power limits and the amount of cores assigned.
Intel may announce these new processors in CES 2025 this coming Monday, and we should know more details by then.
Pokdepinion: That’s rather unconventional. Perhaps this is to save raw materials?
