Intel intends to completely change their CPU microarchitecture, but not too soon

Intel announced their Skylake-X and Kaby Lake-X CPU lineup in May this year, promising up to 18 cores per CPU and unparalleled performance, but the prices show that this new lineup is mainly targeting the enthusiast sector — and we all know that the money comes from the mid-range and entry-level sectors. If we take a closer look at what Intel prepares for these latter sectors, their 4-core and 6-core solutions seem to be built to offer a tad more performance for a slightly increased price. In fact, this has been Intel’s strategy for the past six years, ever since they released the Sandy Bridge microarchitecture, which still remains the basis for all newer CPUs. By looking at Intel's latest job listings, it seems that the company is aware of the limitations of their now old architecture, and it looks like they are ready to begin work on a new architecture – which will probably be released by 2020.

One of the job listings (which is not accepting applications anymore) presents a “Senior CPU Micro-architect and Design Expert” position. According to Intel, the main goal is “to build a revolutionary microprocessor core to power the next decade of computing and create experiences we have yet to dream up.” The new microarchitecture will be developed at Intel’s Hillsboro, Oregon facilities.

The job listing also mentions the fact that the new microarchitecture will facilitate the “production of system-on-a-chip (SoC) products that go into Intel’s next generation client and mobile platforms.” Is Intel planning a more consolidated presence in the mobile markets? We will find out in a few years.

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